Chronic Disease and Chronic Condition Support Community
Rheumatoid arthritis can make small tasks painful, and people often assume arthritis only happens to the old. ShareWell has free online support groups for people living with long-term illness and pain, where members understand what a stiff morning costs.
Live groups available daily.
Understanding rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an autoimmune disease that causes pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints, often along with deep fatigue, and it can affect other parts of the body too. It comes in flares, most often begins in middle age though it can start earlier, and makes ordinary tasks such as opening a jar or typing difficult.
How peer support helps with rheumatoid arthritis
Peer support can help with rheumatoid arthritis because constant pain wears down mood and patience. Sharing with others who live with pain makes it feel less like a private failing.
What rheumatoid arthritis groups often cover
- Flares, morning stiffness and pacing your day
- Asking for help with everyday tasks
- Being young with a condition linked to old age
- Low mood that comes with constant pain
ShareWell groups are peer support and do not give medical advice, so please keep working with your care team on anything about diagnosis or treatment. If you are in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Who these groups may help
- People living with rheumatoid arthritis
- People diagnosed at any age, including in their thirties and forties
- Anyone worn down by daily pain
Related topics
These topics often connect with rheumatoid arthritis and may offer another helpful angle, language, or support space.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a rheumatoid arthritis group online?
Are the stretching sessions safe for my joints?
Is this page also for osteoarthritis?
Where can I find medical information about rheumatoid arthritis?
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