I'm kind of going through the same thing today. We've had a string of gorgeous weather for the past 3 weeks or so and it's just a crime to me to not be outside doing stuff. I even feel guilty if I sit down to read for awhile. But the body just won't cooperate - I just sit on the porch and think about it - not a good thing to do I know.......

I'm 22 and it's extremely difficult for me to watch my friends go out and do these adventurous and physical activities when I cannot. I, also, get very depressed over not being able to do things. I've broken down and cried many times because I would do anything to just go and do whatever I want, when I want. I've been lucky to find a few friends who really understand and support my limitations and find ways to allow me to have fun. They will come to me and we will just do simple things like watch movies or go swimming (which is fabulous for the joints).

I just try my best to enjoy the little things I can do (even if they are lame) but I wish every day when I wake up I could just be pain free and have my life back.

Feel better :)

I hear you. I recently went through that when everything was so painful I would sit and eat. Sitting around and eating is never a good thing to much weight on the joints. I work full time as a nurse and there are times I wonder how I do it. Even when the pain is bad for me I try to still do even little things like leg exercises when I am sitting or arm exercises. Yes I believe we all would love our lives back. Me included. I was so active and now its tough.
I take advantage of the days when the pain is not so bad and hope it doesn't bite me later.
Take care

Hi RATrooper!
I sympathize with you. I stay so tired it seems all I have energy for is napping on the sofa. I ventured to the Walmart today by myself for the first time in months to pick up my prescription for MTX, I made it into the store and got my prescription. Then huffed my way back to the car, the Predisone has made me gain so much weight that I get out of breath so easy. Then I got in the car and my feet started cramping so bad I had to jump back out ( thanks Predisone). It took me 15 minutes to get rid of the cramps. Drove home and crashed wringing wet and exhausted on the sofa. And that is why I hardly ever go out, takes too much energy. Yes, it really sucks and I know we all go through these hard times but I always try to find something good. I have my eyes to see, my ears to listen to music, most days I can dress myself and hug my sweetie. So all in all..find something good in your day!!
It's the way I cope...my thoughts are with you and sending lots of hugs!!!

RA Trooper,

I understand exactly how you feel. I have depression and have fought it since I was a child. Since having RA, it has worsened. The immobility has caused me to have a more sedentary life, which in turn worsens my depression.

I am no longer able to do the things I once did or the things I want to do. Only on good days is that possible. However, I try to keep pushing myself when I can.

I am currently seeing a Psychiatrist for meds to regulate my depression and other disorders. I am also starting therapy next week which should help a great deal as well.

I would suggest seeing a therapist or psychiatrist as well if you notice your depression worsening.

I hear ya. Being immobile is as bad as the pain and fatigued. Everything is compounded with RA. I relate to looking at the good weather, but now it's from the window. I used to be out there gardening, mowing, trimming bushes, painting, stacking fire wood, all this on top of working full time, getting my masters, and being the primary care taker for my mom. I marvel at all I used to do. Who was that women, where did she go, and why did she have to go? I know we all have losses and our lives look very different now. I am thankful for the things I can still do.

Every since I was little I had to sit back and watch others at play etc..so I know what it is like not being able to stay involved and do things...so we have to find out own things which we can manage to do...and we all have good days and bad days..so hang in there -perhaps you can doodle a picture of your pain and then throw something at it!