Health Coaching for Rheumatoid Arthritis

This trial aims to determine if peer coaching can reduce anxiety and depression in people with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). Participants will work with either a peer coach who also has RA or a coach with a different chronic condition. Each participant will engage in weekly phone sessions for 9 weeks and complete surveys to track progress. The trial seeks individuals diagnosed with RA who experience high levels of anxiety or depression and are currently on specific RA medications. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to explore innovative support methods for managing mental health in RA patients.

The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, it mentions that participants must be currently taking a Disease-Modifying Anti-rheumatic drug, so you may need to continue with that medication.

Research shows that peer coaching for people with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is generally safe. Previous studies on similar programs have found that participants often feel more confident in managing their health and experience better physical function, suggesting that patients receive the program well.

Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores how peer coaching could transform life with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Unlike traditional treatments that focus on medications like methotrexate or biologics to manage inflammation, this approach emphasizes support from someone who understands RA firsthand. The peer coach, also living with RA, offers personalized guidance and motivation through phone sessions, creating a supportive environment that could enhance mental well-being and potentially improve physical outcomes. By comparing this method to coaching from someone with a different chronic condition, researchers hope to uncover the unique benefits of shared experiences in managing RA.

Research has shown that peer coaching can be a useful tool for people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In this trial, participants in the "Healthier" arm will receive peer coaching from individuals who also have RA. Studies have found that peer coaches can help others manage their condition and improve mental health. Early results suggest that peer coaching can lower anxiety and depression in people with RA. A review of different peer coaching programs found that these programs help people take better care of themselves and improve their health. Thus, promising evidence suggests that peer coaching might help reduce anxiety and depression in people with RA.¹⁶⁷⁸⁹