‘Coping with Rheumatoid arthritis’ : self and identity and chronic illness

Abstract

The main objective of this research is too look upon how the chronic illness Rheumatoid Arthritis affects the lives of the diagnosed individuals, mainly their ‘self’ and ‘identity’. Chronic illnesses start to shape the lives of the individuals. It is fundamental that the diagnosed individuals act upon their new patterns and adapt to this new lifestyle. Individuals have different approaches to living with chronic illnesses. Some experience the onset of chronic illness in negative ways, others look at it with a positive attitude. Being diagnosed with a chronic illness may change the way that the individual sees the ‘self’ and the way he or she experience life. Diagnosed individuals may at times feel that they are being disconnected and worthless within society, they feel that whilst others continue to pursue a full life, a life they can control, they cannot. Many individuals with chronic illnesses feel that their lives are full of gaps, and they cannot do anything about it.