Anxiety

This is a general, sometimes vague, sense of unease or worry. It is generally not directed toward any one issue. Fear, on the other hand, has a definite direction. In RA, fear is usually directed toward immediate and future problems such as pain and the possibility of disability, job loss, medication toxicities, loss of friends, and inability to meet financial obligations. Whenever anxiety and fear overwhelm our ability to cope, stress is the inevitable result.

Fear
What are you afraid of, and what is the basis of your fear? Fear of future adverse consequences associated with RA or its required medications is understandable. But do you assume that every possible complication or toxic reaction will happen to you? That situation is extremely unlikely. This form of worrying drains your energy and slows your progress.
Combat fear with facts. Learn to recognize the early signs of problems; then, if they do occur, you and your physician can act promptly and decisively to counteract them. If you follow this advice you will feel better prepared and less frightened. Confronting each problem as it presents itself will make you feel stronger and better equipped to deal with any future difficulties. Being adequately informed about RA and its course of treatment can be extremely reassuring.
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ARTHRITIS