As a result, some people who have ankylosing spondylitis may feel isolated and lonely, and that can actually further complicate overall health. According to Susan M. Goodman, MD, a rheumatologist at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City, isolating yourself socially because of ankylosing spondylitis may be a result of not having an adequate support system to help you navigate the condition. It can also lead to depression, which is common in people who have ankylosing spondylitis, or even worsen your pain or other symptoms. In fact, a study published in June 2018 in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases found that people who have ankylosing spondylitis who feel lonely were more likely to experience increased pain and less likely to adhere to their prescribed medication regimens, further worsening their symptoms. “Many who feel disabled are reluctant to socialize,” Dr. Goodman explains. “This is especially true for many forms of arthritis that affect younger adults, including ankylosing spondylitis.” However, there are steps you can take to combat loneliness when you have ankylosing spondylitis. Here are a few suggestions:
1. Join a support group
You may feel like the only person living with ankylosing spondylitis. If so, joining a support group may help. The Spondylitis Association of America (SAA) can connect you with a support group, either online or in your local community, so that you can get to know others with ankylosing spondylitis and share tips on how to manage the condition. Also, others with ankylosing spondylitis understand what you’re going through and how symptoms may affect your life. Connecting with others who are living with the condition can help you feel less alone.
2. Take a group exercise class
Exercise is one of the best things you can do when you have ankylosing spondylitis, as it can help ease symptoms like joint pain and stiffness and maintain joint mobility and function. The SAA recommends low-impact exercise such as tai chi and yoga. Taking a class can help you learn how to do these exercises and comes with the added benefit of meeting new people and socializing. You may even meet people who have ankylosing spondylitis or other similar conditions.
3. Find a new hobby
If you have interests like art or sports, make an extra effort to pursue them, ideally in group settings, whenever possible. Take a painting or cooking class, for example, or sign up for a continuing education course at a local college or university. You can also join a club in your local community. These activities are great ways to meet people who share a common interest with you while also helping to take your mind off of ankylosing spondylitis, the SAA says.
4. Get a pet
If you like animals — dogs, cats, fish, birds — a pet may help you combat loneliness. Animals make great companions, and dogs in particular can get you up and out while walking them, Goodman explains.
5. Become an ankylosing spondylitis advocate
Ankylosing spondylitis isn’t a particularly well-known condition. If you feel lonely because no one seems to understand your condition, there’s a way to change that: Get involved in raising ankylosing spondylitis awareness, the SAA suggests. Volunteering with a local group working to educate the public on ankylosing spondylitis and raising funds for care and treatment can help you meet people who have the condition and make you feel good at the same time.
6. Get help
Goodman emphasizes that if you have tried these and other techniques to address any feelings of loneliness — or if you recognize some signs and symptoms of depression — you should seek help from a therapist or other mental health professional. They can help you address deeper issues and work on coping skills. You may also benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy or prescription drug treatment. Ask your doctor for a referral.
