Even though there’s no cure for psoriatic arthritis, you don’t have to face it alone.
Nonprofit organizations, support sites, and online communities can give you important information, as well as ways for you to connect with others.
You might find support groups that meet online or in-person. These groups offer a safe place for people to share experiences and information with those who have the same illness. Many people say these meetings help them cope better.
Blogs can offer firsthand accounts and perspectives that you might relate to. And social media platforms are popular ways to share stories.
These tools can be valuable, but keep in mind that you shouldn’t look to websites for medical advice. That’s your doctor’s job.
When you find a site that looks interesting, ask yourself:
- Who runs the site?
- Is the organization trying to sell anything?
- Is the information credible, reviewed by a medical expert, and up to date?
- Does the site make outrageous claims or offer “miracle cures”?
Use common sense when you look for information or research online. If you’re not sure about where to start, your doctor can give you some tips.
Nonprofit Organizations
These reliable organizations offer information and support for people with psoriatic arthritis:
Professional Organizations
You also might want to check out these groups of health care providers:
Organizations for Financial Assistance
If you’re struggling to pay for psoriatic arthritis treatments, these sites may be able to help:
Blogs
Some people with psoriatic arthritis write their own blogs that feature their personal struggles and successes. Blogs on organizations’ sites may be more informational.
NPF Blog: You’ll find educational articles plus personal stories on the NPF’s blog site.
Arthritis Foundation:Psoriatic Arthritis Blog: The Arthritis Foundation’s blog features articles that highlight new research and ways to live well with psoriatic arthritis.
It’s Just a Bad Day, Not a Bad Life: In this personal blog, a patient and advocate who lives with psoriatic arthritis and other chronic diseases writes to inspire others.
Living with Psoriatic Arthritis: Memo to Me: This video blog, or vlog, features people with psoriatic arthritis who give advice to their younger selves.
Online Communities
TalkPsoriasis:This online support community, sponsored by the NPF, offers people with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis a platform where they can connect and exchange information.
Live Yes!: The Arthritis Foundation sponsors this online network that connects you with others. You can make friends, share tips, and chat about your concerns.
Living with Psoriatic Arthritis: This online forum offers peer-to-peer support for families affected by psoriatic arthritis. It’s run by volunteer moderators.
Reddit: Reddit is an online community that lets you connect and share information with others about a specific topic. You can add your opinion or simply read comments from others.
Popular hashtags: Search for #psoriaticarthritis, #psoriasis, or #arthritis on social media sites like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Remember, the news and information you read on social media sites may not always be reliable. Here are some tips:
- Check the author, sponsor, and information sources.
- Confirm that the account is legitimate. Some social media sites have a special symbol, like a checkmark, to verify this.
- Look for major nonprofit organizations, such as the NPF and the Arthritis Foundation, on social sites. Use the link on the group’s official website to reach the social network page.
Facebook:Many groups on Facebook let you connect with others and share information. Look for a blue check next to the page or account name to be sure it’s verified.
