Health and Disability

“Biologically, depression is a source of stress, which can hamper the immune system and lead to musculoskeletal decline, both of which can contribute to disability. Behaviorally, one of the symptoms of clinical depression is amotivation — difficulty being motivated to do things. We all know the saying ‘When you don’t use it, you lose it.’ This can be a factor here: people with depression and RA don’t have the motivation to move, so they don’t, which makes muscles weaker and mobility more difficult. It becomes a vicious cycle,” explained Elizabeth Lombardo, Ph.D., a psychologist, physical therapist, and author of the bestselling book "Better Than Perfect: 7 Strategies to Crush Your Inner Critic and Create a Life You Love.”