Emotional Health

Neuropsychiatric Lupus

Lupus may affect the central nervous system in possibly up to 40% of those living with SLE.  Often labelled by the rather scary sounding name, “neuropsychiatric lupus,” its symptoms can range from mild brain fog and headaches to more serious conditions like memory loss, seizures, strokes and others that can dramatically affect quality of life. …

Read More

Lupus and Summer

Summertime … and the livin’ with lupus is… not easy. With the intense sunlight, heat, humidity, wind, pollen and even air pollution, summer can make life miserable for those living with SLE.  Summer conditions can trigger flares and possibly even the disease itself.  To learn how to best manage this time of year, read on. …

Read More

Lupus and PTSD

 As you know, stress can negatively affect one’s health in many ways.  It can range from minor concerns to severe traumas that can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).  The latest research on stress and lupus shows growing evidence that the effects of PTSD may actually trigger the development of lupus as a disease!  What…

Read More

Lupus and Neurotransmitters

Lupus can attack any part of the body, and that includes the brain – causing lupus fog, memory problems and even mood swings.  Neurotransmitters, are your brain’s chemical messengers and they are definitely part of the possible.  What are neurotransmitters and why does it matter to those living with lupus?  Read on to find out! …

Read More

Lupus and Self-care: A Day at the Spa

Prioritizing routine self-care is a must for both women and men living with lupus. Enjoying a day at the spa – or creating a spa-like experience at home – can feed the body and soul!   Introduction to Lupus and Self-care: A Day at the Spa Building the Perfect Spa Day In Conclusion Introduction to…

Read More

Spoon Theory

Finding the right words to put living with lupus in perspective can be difficult.   Spoon Theory to the rescue! What is Spoon Theory? Who is a Spoonie? Life as a Spoonie In Conclusion What is Spoon Theory? In 2003, Christine Miserandino created The Spoon Theory to explain what life is like for someone living…

Read More

Lupus and Isolation: A Guide to Surviving the Holidays During a Global Pandemic

Few can argue that 2020 has been a year unlike any other. Feelings of isolation may be amplified now that it’s the holiday season, and if you have lupus, these feelings may be stronger than ever. Introduction Reframing Your Thinking 10 Self-Care Habits To Carry You Through the Holidays Do Onto Others In Conclusion Introduction…

Read More

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Lupus

While Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is not an overlap disease of lupus, current research is revealing more and more similarities between both conditions and what may cause them. Introduction What causes CFS? What are the symptoms of CFS? How is CFS diagnosed and treated? In Conclusion Introduction In 2015, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) published a…

Read More

Dealing With a Lupus Depression: How Do You Cope?

Researchers of a 2017 meta-study published in the journal BMC Psychiatry found that approximately 25% 0f individuals with lupus experience depression. You may be one of those individuals who suffer from this often debilitating condition, especially when trying to come to terms with having lupus. Why does this happen and what can you do to…

Read More

Lupus and Emotional Health: The Impact of Mental Health Therapy on Overall Well-Being

It is normal to feel overwhelmed at times. You may feel stressed, anxious, depressed or even angry. Emotions are a part of life, yet at times they are overwhelming.  When you have lupus, a flare, especially when you’ve been feeling pretty decent, can throw you for a loop.  A new diagnosis of lupus comes with…

Read More