Looking after social and emotional wellbeing

November 2021

If you live with a chronic condition, such as arthritis, dealing with a flare or feeling anxious about your symptoms can cause distress. Looking after mental and social wellbeing often includes a range of activities, healthy habits and support networks. 

In this article, we look at just some of the simple things people may include in their every day life to help look after social and emotional wellbeing, and to live well with arthritis.

Get involved in your local community

Being part of a community can provide a sense of belonging and foster life-long friendships. This can have a positive impact on your mental health and emotional wellbeing.

Some ways you can stay connected within your community include:

• Participating in peer support groups e.g. local Men's Sheds
• Find out events or meet-ups happening in your local area - your local council may list details of events and community groups
• Volunteering your time in local events can be a great way to add purpose and meaning to your daily activities and can help you become more active, both mentally and physically. The experience of helping others can give people a greater sense of self-worth, improve mood and their outlook about their own condition. 

You can also connect with others living with arthritis in our online support groups or via Arthritis Assist.

Enjoy the little things in life

On days when you're feeling sluggish, turn up your favourite tunes or engage in art activities.

For example, you may like to listen to music, write a blog, read a book, sing, do some crocheting, ring a friend, paint or do some craft work. Researchers have found that listening to music helps to boost your energy and stimulates positive thinking.

Connecting to your culture or learning about other cultures can also add meaning and value to your daily activities. 

Visit the outdoors

Spending time out in nature can have a positive impact on both your mental and physical wellbeing. More outdoor activity means less time sitting and more time moving. Staying active can strengthen your joints and muscles, and can help you manage your arthritis.

The outdoors can also lift your mood and improve your self-esteem. Some tips include:

• Visiting a local park, garden or beach with less noise, less people and fewer sources of stress
• Gardening 
• Exercising
• Going for a walk outside or walking your dog
• Bringing the outdoors inside e.g. having more indoor plants in your home

Other ways to cope with the challenges of living with arthritis can include practising yoga, tai chai and meditation. Read more about these below:

• Tai Chi information sheet
• Meditation for Arthritis

For more tips, information and resources to support wellbeing visit Head to Health.  

Similar articles:

• Boost your Energy: Easy fatigue-busters to get you through the day
• Meditation for Arthritis
• Support for Mental Wellbeing

References:
Head to Health: https://www.headtohealth.gov.au/meaningful-life/connectedness/community