PSYCHOLOGICAL CHALLENGES AND COPING MECHANISMS IN INDIVIDUALS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Abstract

This thesis explores the intricate relationship between mental health challenges and coping strategies in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Beyond its physical symptoms, RA profoundly affects psychological well-being. The research investigates how mental health issues correlate with adaptive coping strategies in RA patients, using a correlational design and a sample of 200 patients (100 males and 100 females). The study employs standardized measures of depression, anxiety, stress, and loneliness to quantitatively assess participants. Findings reveal high rates of anxiety and depression among RA patients, with gender-specific differences: women reported more stress and anxiety, along with greater interpersonal difficulties, while men exhibited higher levels of depression. Women also demonstrated a wider range of coping strategies. Mental health issues were found to significantly predict coping mechanisms, underscoring the importance of psychological well-being in adapting to RA. These results highlight the need for personalized psychosocial interventions, tailored to the specific mental health needs of male and female RA patients. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of the psychological challenges faced by individuals with RA and calls for gender-sensitive treatments to enhance adaptive coping and overall mental health.