There are various rheumatoid arthritis support groups that can help you, both live and online. Learn how to find one that's right for you.

People with rheumatoid arthritis seem to agree that the best source of understanding and support comes from other people with rheumatoid arthritis.

Tammy Kerker, 39, of Orlando, Fla., has had rheumatoid arthritis for most of her life and has found support both in-person and online from people with rheumatoid arthritis..

Kerker is involved with the Florida Arthritis Foundation, formerly sitting on the central board of directors. Now that she has three small children, she finds herself with less time for live meetings. She is also involved with an online support forum called Moms With RA. Kerker says these groups help her live a full life with rheumatoid arthritis. She offers the following suggestions as to what you should consider when choosing a rheumatoid arthritis support group.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Groups: Three Big Reasons to Go

• Solidarity. “It’s moral support. Sometimes [living with RA] is downright depressing,” Kerker says. “It’s nice to make friends in the same position. Things that aren’t simple for us, things that seem easy for other people — they understand.”
• Practical advice. “You get tips on how to handle different situations,” Kerker says. When you face challenges you can tap into the collective wisdom of other people in the rheumatoid arthritis community.
• Finding a new normal. A disease like rheumatoid arthritis often makes people just feel different, and that can be isolating. Kerker keeps in touch with a 12-year-old girl in her area who was recently diagnosed. “It was good for her to see that it wasn’t the end of the world,” Kerker says, “for her to meet someone who had it when they were young and now has a husband and kids.”

Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Groups: Pros and Cons of Online Support Groups

Pros:

• Not limited by location. Online it’s easier to find a group that meets your needs. A live group that addresses your specific concerns may not be available in your local area. Kerker says of her local chapter of the Arthritis Foundation, “There is not a ton of young people participating in it.”
• Accessible anytime. Live groups may meet once a week or once a month, but what if you have questions immediately? It’s been nice to be able to go online with a question at any time of night, and get a response pretty quickly," Kerker says.

Cons:

• Not personal. You may not really get to know the other members. If you thrive with face-to-face support, a live group might work better for you.

Rheumatoid Support Groups: Other Things to Consider

• Group size. A larger group, be it online or in person, will grant you access to a diversity of opinions and experiences that you may not find in a smaller group. But, a smaller group feels more intimate, with a chance to get to know each member.
• You changing needs. Make sure to re-evaluate whether the group is right for you. When Kerker was younger, she wished for a local group that was geared to the needs of young people; now that she has kids herself, she’s more interested in issues that face moms with rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Groups: Where Are They?

Once you’ve decided what you’re looking for, there are a number of rheumatoid arthritis support groups.

• Online: Blogs, forums, and social networking sites. Look for a group on social networking sites like Facebook, MySpace, Meetup, and others.
• Live: The Arthritis Foundation and community groups. Your local chapter of the Arthritis Foundation may offer classes and support groups, or ask at your doctor’s office about groups in your area.

Both types of support groups offer a wealth of knowledge about rheumatoid arthritis, as well as practical advice and support from others who know how you’re feeling. One of the most important things is that you feel comfortable with the group you choose. If you prefer in-person social interactions, you may want to look for a live group. If you would rather get information and support while at home, online may be the way to go. Either way, you’ll be glad to have a connection with others who have been there.