Arthritis can have a significant impact on people’s mental health and well-being, in addition to physical symptoms such as joint damage and pain. Featured below are information talks, mindfulness sessions and other resources which we hope will help you.

How does arthritis affect mental health?

Dr Jennifer Wilson-O'Raghallaigh in conversation with Gráinne O'Leary

How and why does arthritis affect people’s mental health? Is there a connection between physical pain and emotional well-being? What are some positive steps that people with arthritis can undertake to mind their mental health? These are some of the issues discussed by Dr Jennifer Wilson-O’Raghallaigh in this conversation with Gráinne O’Leary. Dr Wilson-O'Raghallaigh is principal clinical psychologist at Beaumont Hospital; Gráinne O’Leary is chief executive of Arthritis Ireland.

Mindfulness practices for people with arthritis

With Susan Barrett

This series of videos introduces mindfulness practices to people with arthritis, focusing on a body scan, mindful movement and breathing. Mindfulness teacher, Susan Barrett, also provides a helpful introduction to how these powerful practices might help people living with arthritis. She looks at the connection between physical pain and mental/emotional pain, meeting discomfort and working with uncertainty.

Body scan for people with arthritis

Mindful movement for people with arthritis

Awareness of breathing practice for people with arthritis

Contact the helpline

For an understanding, empathic ear, along with reliable, trustworthy information contact the helpline on 0818 252 846 or email [email protected] Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm. 

Download the Coping with Emotions booklet