Mindfulness meditation: a primer for rheumatologists

An integrated approach to the treatment of Rheumatic diseases: the role of psychological interventions

Rheumatic diseases are chronic conditions that often result in significant physical and psychological challenges, reducing patients' quality of life and increasing the economic burden on healthcare systems. This study examines the vital role of psychological interventions in the comprehensive treatment of rheumatic diseases. The findings reveal a high prevalence of psycho-emotional disorders such as depression, anxiety, and stress among these patients, which can worsen disease progression and hinder treatment adherence. The review highlights the bidirectional relationship between the central nervous and immune systems, showing how psychological stress influences the pathophysiology of inflammatory diseases. Various psychological interventions are explored, including mind-body therapies, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness-based practices such as meditation, yoga, and tai chi. These approaches improve emotional well-being, help reduce pain, and enhance overall quality of life. The article emphasizes a holistic treatment model incorporating pharmacological care, physical rehabilitation, and psychological support. This integrated approach fosters more effective management of rheumatic diseases by addressing their complex nature and promoting better functional outcomes. The study advocates for the seamless incorporation of psychological support into routine clinical practice tailored to the biopsychosocial profile of each patient. Future research should focus on identifying the most effective psychological interventions for different patient groups to enhance the quality of life for individuals with rheumatic diseases.

Retrospective review of work transition narratives: Advancing occupational perspectives and strategies

BACKGROUND

In 2009 the journal WORK commenced a new column for the publication of Work Transition Narratives. Fourteen persons with lived experience published their narratives on approaches that helped them through work disruptions and change.

OBJECTIVE

A review of the articles was conducted to understand how people navigated challenges and obstacles and made sense of their in-transition experiences to return to work or to find new employment.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted using a convenience sample of N = 14 published narratives. A template approach was developed using micro (individual) and macro (social, cultural, political, structural) level issues to extract and analyze descriptive content. A senior researcher and two Masters of Science students independently reviewed the narratives and extracted data. A dialogic and inductive approach was used to achieve consensus on the description of the types of mechanisms used to move forward.

RESULTS

The mechanisms evident in the narratives used by people to navigate work disruptions included drawing on anchors, catalysts, champions, opportunities, learning, coming to terms, critical conversations, and critical reflections.

CONCLUSION

Mechanisms used to navigate in-transition experiences add to the knowledge on negotiating the dialectical relationship of micro and macro level challenges in occupational transitions of work. This review and analysis revealed commonly used strategies that may assist others in addressing in-transition work challenges. In addition, the findings have implications for ongoing research and the development of occupational mindfulness approaches that may help people through the overwhelming and often daunting experience of work transitions.

Fatigue in inflammatory arthritis

Fatigue is highly prevalent in inflammatory arthritis, and people living with the symptom have described it as overwhelming and a challenge to manage. In this article, we explore the experience, impact and non-pharmacological management of fatigue from a multi-disciplinary perspective. We start by presenting qualitative evidence from people living with fatigue, including the physical, cognitive and emotional nature of the symptom and its impact on daily life. This is followed by discussion of current conceptual models of mechanisms and factors that may cause and maintain fatigue, within and between individuals. We then address the issue of fatigue measurement and modes of assessment, which is an integral aspect of management and evaluating support provision. This leads to a review of the research evidence for non-pharmacological interventions to reduce fatigue severity and impact. Finally, we consider implementation of this evidence in clinical practice and we introduce some key practical tools and techniques.