Living with arthritis or orthopedic conditions might mean that your future feels different than it once did and can cause additional stress. Social workers at Hospital for Special Surgery offer tips to help manage stress:
1. Increase positive self-talk and set reasonable goals
2. Speak with your health care provider about ways to become more active without overdoing it or aggravating an injury: try walking or yoga
3. Connect more with others, as it can be energizing
4. Keep a personal journal to express heartfelt thoughts
5. Learn meditation or other forms of relaxation to increase a sense of well-being
6. Be assertive about your needs, while understanding loved ones may experience their own stressors
7. Consider professional therapy: about 60% of psychotherapists are social workers
Hospital for Special Surgery offers support programs, groups and other resources for patients and the community, read more: https://hss.edu/support-programs.asp
