[Chosen problems of mental functioning in patients with chronic systemic connective tissue diseases base on example of rheumatoid arthritis].

Disorders in mental functioning are indicated as the cause of all connective tissue diseases and also as their consequences. That is why psychologist's help may be very important for patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Psychological observations of patients with chronic systemic connective tissue diseases show a number of negative emotional states such as fear, anxiety, insecurity, depressed mood, depression, impatience, anger and a sense of loss These patients constantly experience pain of varying intensity and location. In many of them progressive disease leads to the advancement of mental crisis. Methods of psychological therapy must be focused on strenghtening mental resilience and helping in surviving mental crisis. Psychological therapy should concentrate on raising self-esteem, training interpersonal skills and teaching relaxation techniques to cope better with pain and suffering. Psychological therapy should support the patient in struggling with the problems caused by the disease and developing ways of adapting to life with the disease.