Changing Negative Self-Talk
Unhealthy self-talk can make the challenges of RA seem like an impossible battle. Learning to change your self-talk is an important tool in improving your mood. Here are some ways to make this transformation:
Unhealthy: I would like to exercise, but I can’t. I am too old to start, anyway. I know I can’t do it.
Healthy: Starting an exercise program will give me a chance to get out of the house. I could start slow and easy with a walk in the park or the mall. If I get tired, I can sit down and look at store windows and rest a while.
Unhealthy: My life will never be the same now that I have RA. I will never be able to do anything that I like to do.
Healthy: I’m still the same person I’ve always been. I can cope. I may have changed since I was diagnosed, but I’m still a person of worth. I have a lot to give the people around me.
Unhealthy: My friends never call me. People don’t like being around me.
Healthy: My friends are just trying to be considerate and spare my energy. They are waiting for signals form me. Or they may be uncomfortable and not know how to help me. I need to ask them for what I want.
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