Living with arthritis as a young adult can sometimes feel isolating. While friends and family may care deeply, it can be challenging for others to fully understand the unique experiences of managing symptoms, navigating study or work, maintaining relationships and planning for the future while living with a chronic condition.
That’s why community matters.
Connecting with others who share similar experiences can provide reassurance, practical advice and a sense of belonging. Whether it’s talking through the challenges of managing flare-ups, sharing tips for staying active, or simply having a conversation where you don’t need to explain your condition, these connections can make a meaningful difference. 
What Does the Research Say?
Research highlights the important role that connection and social support play in the wellbeing of people living with arthritis. Living with a chronic condition involves more than just managing symptoms which can be particularly challenging for young adults as you navigate major life transitions while learning to balance health needs alongside everyday life.
While healthcare professionals provide essential medical expertise, connecting with someone who has lived through similar experiences can provide reassurance, validation, and a sense of belonging. Research involving young people with juvenile arthritis found that peer connections helped participants feel understood, less isolated, and reassured that their experiences were shared by others (Waite-Jones & Swallow, 2018).
Research also suggests that social support can improve quality of life, confidence, and self-management for people living with rheumatic conditions. Sharing practical strategies, learning from others’ experiences, and building relationships with people who understand the challenges of living with arthritis can help individuals feel more empowered in managing their condition (Karp et al., 2023).
Overall, the evidence suggests that peer support is more than simply connecting with others. By combining shared experience with practical advice and encouragement, peer communities can help people feel more confident and capable in managing the challenges of living with arthritis.
Our Community
Recently, a group of young adults from our community came together in Sydney for a coffee and walk in the park. While arthritis was what initially brought everyone together, the conversations quickly expanded beyond health. People shared stories about work, study, travel, hobbies, relationships, and everyday life. It was a reminder that while arthritis may be part of our lives, it doesn’t define who we are.
One of the most valuable parts of connecting with others who have arthritis is the opportunity to build genuine friendships with people who understand your experiences. These relationships can provide support beyond appointments and treatment plans, creating a network of people who can celebrate your wins, listen during challenges, and remind you that you’re not alone.
Building Community and Connection
There are many ways to find support and connect with others who understand life with arthritis.
1. Young Adult Chill and Chat
Throughout the year, we offer opportunities for young adults to connect both online and in person through our Young Adult Chill & Chat sessions. These relaxed events provide a welcoming space to meet others, share experiences, and have conversations with people who understand the realities of living with arthritis.
We also invite guest speakers, including rheumatology nurses, psychologists, exercise physiologists, and other health professionals, as well as hosting panel discussions on topics that matter to young adults navigating life with arthritis.
2. Arthritis Assist Peer Mentoring Program
Our Arthritis Assist program connects people living with arthritis through one-on-one peer support. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, adjusting to a new stage of life, or looking for someone who understands your experiences, speaking with another young adult who has walked a similar path can provide valuable encouragement, understanding, and support.
Alternatively, if you would like to become a peer mentor and help others sign up here.
3. Strava Community Group
Movement looks different for everyone. Our Strava community group provides a supportive space where members can celebrate achievements, encourage one another, and stay connected through physical activity at their own pace. Check it out here.
4. Podcasts and Social Media
Podcasts can be a great way to hear stories from others who understand life with arthritis. The GHLF Podcast Network features conversations about chronic illness, self-advocacy, and patient experiences, while Arthur’s Heroes from Arthur’s Place, shares inspiring stories from young adults navigating life with arthritis. These stories can provide practical insights, encouragement, and a reminder that you’re part of a much bigger community.
Social media can also be a powerful way to find community, particularly for young adults who may not know anyone else with arthritis in their local area. Seeing people who share similar experiences can provide reassurance, practical tips and a sense of representation that many young people may not otherwise find.
Here are a few accounts to explore:
Summary
Finding your community can look different for everyone. It might mean joining a group, attending an event, connecting with a peer mentor, following someone’s story online, or simply having a conversation with someone who understands.
Whether you’re looking for friendship, support, motivation, or a place to share your experiences, there are many ways to connect. Sometimes knowing that someone else understands can make all the difference.
If you’d like to get involved in our young adult community, explore our peer mentoring program, join our Strava group or access our podcasts and resources, we’d love to hear from you!
Written by Emily Guenther, July 2026
