More than 130 million Americans suffer from chronic pain conditions. Women are more likely to suffer from a chronic arthritis-related condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or fibromyalgia. Rheumatoid arthritis is 2 to 3 times more common in women than men, and usually strikes women between the ages of ages of 40 and 60, but can develop as early as their 20s and 30s. Fibromyalgia also affects women in the same age group and usually peaks around age 35, striking a huge group of working mothers with young children.
Arthritis-related conditions can affect individuals of all ages, but often they strike women who are in their 30s and 40s who have heavy work and home responsibilities, this according to Androniki Bili, MD, MPH, of Geisinger Health System in Danville, Pa. "We are looking at women who have young children and who are bread winners or equal partners in bringing in income."
A study published in Arthritis Research & Therapy found that rheumatoid arthritis is not only more common in women, but it takes a tougher toll on their bodies and minds. Thus, women are more likely to have symptoms more severe than males despite similar treatment. Moreover, women are also less likely to have their conditions go into remission than are their male counterparts.
For a working mother with one or more chronic arthritis-related conditions, balancing the needs of your family, your job, and your illness can be tough. In order for a working mother to be successful in management of chronic pain and still maintain a work-life balance, some lifestyle changes and modifications must be made. Below are some tips to maintain a work-life balance while living with chronic pain:
1. Educate yourself about your condition and understand your limitations.
2. Talk to and work with your doctor about your concerns and your work-life balance.
3. Educate your partner and your children so they can have a better idea of your limitations and challenges. For younger children, you will take to discuss your condition with them at their level and understanding.
4. Always communicate with your children so that they do not worry.
5. Make time for yourself and rest often.
6. Always prioritize your to-do list at home and at work.
7. Be your own advocate and find support and solutions to make your life easier.
8. Exercise and eat healthy.
9. Always have a plan. There will always be good days and bad days when you live with chronic pain, and planning and preparing ahead of time for the bad days can go a long ways in maintaining your mental and physical well-being. Moreover, it eases the worries that your children may have if they see that you are in control.
There is not much you can really do about your diagnoses, but you can change how you manage your life and respond to the “bad days.” Moreover, you are the best advocate for yourself, and the support that you find will make your life easier and will ease the worries that your children and spouse may have.
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