http://www.painconnection.org/MyTreatment/articles/Arthritis_TO_Psychology.asp
Painful arthritis attacks can prompt feelings of depression, sadness and loss. Frustration and anger also are normal responses to any chronic pain condition, including arthritis. However, because the mind can influence the body (and vise versa), such negative emotions can further aggravate arthritis pain. Along with arthritis medication management and arthritis physical therapy, psychological pain management techniques that incorporate a “mind-body” connection can help break this vicious cycle.