Project 466610

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a debilitating autoimmune disease characterized by chronic inflammation that can lead to permanent physical damage and hinder the psychological wellbeing across the lifespan. Adjustment to life with RA involves a significant amount of coping with the unpredictable nature of the disease. RA coupled with the co-occurrence of anxiety or depression raises concern for this population as they are already at increased risk for poorer physical health and have limited access to support. The uncertainty from RA when paired with the inability to tolerate uncertainty stemming from emotional disorders can lead to increased pain, more severe symptoms across conditions, poorer quality of life, and less likelihood of following treatment plans. Of utmost concern, is whether diagnosed patients with comorbid anxiety or depressive disorders in RA are adequately equipped with coping skills to handle the volume of unforeseen and uncontrollable change. The proposed project will be the first to implement and evaluate a modified cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) intervention for co-occurring emotional disorders in RA targeting illness uncertainty and intolerance of uncertainty. The proposed trial of an uncertainty-focused CBT intervention will help promote overall quality life and reduce symptoms across conditions. Findings from the measurement of treatment outcomes before and after participating in the program will be beneficial for encouraging greater inclusion of mental health screening in those with RA. Additional support will be garnered advocating for the use of a multidisciplinary approach for care to reduce anxiety, depression, and RA severity in turn contributing to improvement in overall quality of life.