How may I cope with the feeling of guilt?

Hi MGE,

I'm sorry to hear you're dealing with the feeling of guilt. I feel that, too. I feel it mostly on days when the exhaustion is so unbearable that I can't get out of bed and have to cancel plans. Or when I am at work and I can't pitch in to lift something heavy. I feel like sometimes it's easier to let people think that I am a flake or unhelpful than explaining that I have RA. This can leave me feeling guilty but I also have to remember that I am not my disease and neither are you. Rheumatoid Arthritis has many side affects that we have no control over and we should not be left feeling guilty for that. Even though it's difficult, it helps me to be open and honest with my loved ones about everything that I am feeling so they can try to understand instead of becoming frustrated. I also try to practice mindfulness to help me cope with everything that RA throws my way including guilt.

I hope this helps. Hang in there, I'm right there with you.

Franki (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team)

Franki, thanks so much for responding to me.
This is an issue that I have been dealing with since I was diagnosed, almost 3 years ago.
I am sorry that you have to work while you are not feeling well.
I just left work few months prior to my retirement due to unable to perform as I used to.
I guess that I am still within the learning process...
However, it is difficult at times.
I have Asthma and Neuropathy issues as well.
These other issues are worse than the RA at times, due to Orencia.
I do appreciate your comments and time.
May God blesses you on a daily basis.
I am still debating that I Am Not RA; I Am Still Me.
Sincerely,
Mayra GE