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Coping With Rheumatoid Arthritis

Who deals with the emotional side of RA?

About.com Rating four out of Five

By Carol & Richard Eustice, About.com

Updated: October 31, 2006

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Kate Grossman, MD

The physical treatment of rheumatoid arthritis is managed by a physician or rheumatologist. Research is the dominion of scientists. Yet the emotional side of living with rheumatoid arthritis is left for the patient to deal with alone. Or is it?

Book promotes adaptation and interaction, understanding and encouragement

The self-help book, "Coping With Rheumatoid Arthritis", by Robert H. Phillips, Ph.D. is a valuable resource which offers facts, suggestions, techniques, strategies, and ideas to help you and your family and friends cope with life which is forevermore altered by the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease, not terminal, but not yet curable either. Patients are faced with many challenges, limitations, and lifestyle changes. The ongoing struggle of coping with chronic pain can provoke emotional upheaval. Phillips’ book focuses on learning to cope with the disease and manage the psychological effects. The book serves as a companion to help guide the patient through the difficulties, both present and future. The book promotes adaptation and interaction, understanding and encouragement. The author, Robert H. Phillips, Ph.D. is a practicing psychologist on Long Island, New York. He is the founder and director of the Center for Coping with Chronic Conditions, an organization which helps individuals with chronic illness and their families. He is also involved with many local and national medical organizations.

Rejuvenate positive attitude

The book is written in an informative, yet soothing style. The advice offered makes it a "must-read" for people newly-diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and people close to them. It is also invaluable to longtime sufferers of the disease as it serves to rejuvenate positive attitude and coping skills.
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