I am really struggling with wanting to do as much as possible while the weather is good. Especially since we had such a long cold winter. I let my house get very dirty and messy this winter, trying to use my energy for my job and exercise (walking the dog).
So I am lonely too. I have been cleaning so that I will feel comfortable inviting people over to visit. I used to be able to keep myself busy biking, hiking kayaking etc. with friends. Since I have not started treatment yet (waiting on insurance), I am struggling with having to limit what I do in a day bc of pain. I am laying on ice right now.
I am also struggling with trying to plan an evening to have friends over bc I am afraid that I may not have the energy. And I’m a grump when I don’t feel good, so it’s hard to plan ahead.
So I know none of this is new to this forum. And things could be worse. I feel better just whining a little bit. And the ice and NSAID are helping now. Can anyone relate? Maybe I’d feel less lonely with it if someone said they could relate. Thanks
Of course we can relate to this! Before I began treatment, my house was a disaster zone. It has got better since Enbrel started to work. Give it time, don’t wear yourself out. One of the things which has not recovered well for me is my social life. I’m feeling much much better than I was, but I do tire easily and go through periods when I … just … can’t. You name it, I can’t. So when you figure out how to have a social life when you have no idea what you will feel like, or what you will be able to do next Friday, let me know. At the moment, I seem to be restricted to spur-of-the-moment events. That’s nice, but not enough.
I can relate totally! I’ve felt bad for 2+ years, various medications, tests…still not even sure exactly what I have other than what my doc called “a little” inflammatory arthritis. Never stop enjoying life! Hang in there!!!
I can relate. My son and husband are great but they have work and school but I feel a little lost since leaving my job. I have been making friends at church, a library mystery book club and working at a soup/food kitchen and at the pool. So far it is going well. When I volunteer they are very good at having a job I can do. Sometimes I sit on a stool and hand out the summer school lunches for kids. I even bring a bag of oranges or whatever to add to the lunches so they have a fresh choice too. I also bring rhubarb or parsnips when they are ready too. I get to meet lots of people but they are activities I can do almost all of the time.
I have been learning lately to ask for help. I seem to think since I do not work I should be doing all the cooking and cleaning. I finally learned to ask for help. I let both my husband and son I was going to need some help on the weekend and it would be great if they could help for a couple of hours, and they did! It could have been when I mentioned hiring help that did it! I made sure to give lots of treats and praises.
PsA is always teaching us something new. These are just some thoughts I had on how I deal with it. I am sure next week it will be some new trick!
Hi Michael,
I was actually thinking that once I get the place cleaned up I should make a budget plan to have someone come in and clean. I am off work right now (for the summer) but I seem to be using all my time off to do yard and house work. Then I don’t have energy for anything fun.
I find it hard to change and let go of “the old way” of doing things.
Hi Cheryl, I can relate, too! It's really challenging going from being a take charge person who can do it all to having half the energy and having to say no to so many things!
Yes GrandmaJ, challenging is a good way to describe it! But not the kind of challenge where I can just assert more energy, willpower and determination. I need to do just the opposite sometimes.
I totally understand was out shopping yesterday for bridesmaids dresses that required a lot of standing and then shopping for various other wedding required goods. Last night I started to feel the aches and pains and today when I work up it took a while to get moving and even then it was at a snails pace.
Today was a better day. I used Salonpas and Sundulac last night. Today I rested until 2:00 watching a movie! Went to K-mart and then cleaned half.of the garage. I am feeling grateful tonight that I have the time right now to rest and that I can see progress in the work that I have done around the house (acceptance and not feeling overwhelmed). More NSAID and Solanpas helps, but I think connecting with you people on this sight helped a lot. Thank you!
Today was a better day. I used Salonpas and Sundulac last night. Today I rested until 2:00 watching a movie! Went to K-mart and then cleaned half.of the garage. I am feeling grateful tonight that I have the time right now to rest and that I can see progress in the work that I have done around the house (acceptance and not feeling overwhelmed). More NSAID and Solanpas helps, but I think connecting with you people on this sight helped a lot. Thank you!
Right now my husband is recovering from surgery so I am doing the things he usually does - which is the stuff that is more difficult for me. I also need to go to the store for a fan, There is also work, were they added to my hours and now take home work. As you can imagine - I am in a constant state of exhaustion and pain.
My husband sees but doesn't really understand. He says I just need to exercise some. Really - when do I fit that in. I also need to call and set up 3 doctor appointments. Again - when?
This all use to be so easy and a good nights rest would fix everything. It is so frustrating!!!!!!!!!!
