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The results of the study were that anxiety was more common than depression (31% and 18%, respectively). Overall, one-
third of respondents reported at least one of the two conditions. Most (84%) of those with depression also had anxiety. Only
half of the respondents with anxiety and/or depression had sought help for their mental health condition in the past year.
Given the high prevalence of depression and anxiety among the participants, their profound impact on quality of life, and
the range of effective treatments available, Louse B. Murphy, et. al., concluded that healthcare professionals should be
encouraged to screen all people with arthritis for both anxiety and depression.
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Likely Causes (Other Than Pain) of Depression in People with OA
In addition to experiencing physical pain, individuals with OA are confronted with challenges that have the potential to affect
their lifestyle and finances. Unanticipated dynamics such as these can intensify or exacerbate depression with lifestyle
effects that include:
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• anxiety
• feelings of helplessness
• limitations of daily activities
• job limitations
• difficulty participating in everyday personal social activities and responsibilities.
Potential financial effects include:
• the cost of treatment
• wages lost because of disability.
Symptoms associated with depression include joint, limb and back pain, gastrointestinal problems, fatigue, psychomotor
activity changes, and appetite changes. In the primary care setting, a high percentage of patients with depression present
exclusively with physical symptoms.
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