Social Issues

Lupus and the Social Construction of Health

Introduction: How Society “Constructs” Illness The Social Construction of Lupus So, What Can We Do? In Conclusion – It Takes a Community!    Introduction: How Society “Constructs” Illness It is easy to think that being “sick” or “healthy” is just a matter of lab tests and a medical diagnosis, but they also represent labels that…

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Lupus and Sexual Health

Lupus can impact various aspects of a person’s life, and sexual intimacy is no exception. Unfortunately, this important topic is often not addressed in conversations between patients and healthcare providers. It is essential to recognize the physical, emotional, and social challenges lupus may present to sexual health. Read on to learn how to navigate these…

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Lupus, Chronic Illness and Divorce

Living with lupus is extremely challenging for those with the disease. At the same time, It can also be a challenge, albeit a different challenge for their partner or spouse.  Statistically, within 5 years of a lupus diagnosis, nearly half of married women are divorced. Fortunately, understanding the challenges and knowing where to get help,…

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Native Americans and Lupus

Native Americans (American Indians and Alaska Natives) are 1.7 times more likely to have lupus than other ethnicities and have the worst outcomes and mortality rates.  Why?  The reasons are nuanced and incredibly important for all living with lupus. Introduction to Native Americans and Lupus Why is understanding how lupus affects the Native American population…

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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…

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Avoiding the Resolution Trap – An Anti-Resolution Guide to the New Year

It is natural for each of us to look at the beginning of a new year almost as a new lease on life. It’s perfectly normal to want to put the previous year behind us and start fresh with a clean slate. However, instead of writing out a definitive list of resolutions that we vow…

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Cheers to You! Balancing Alcohol and Lupus

Introduction Drinking 101 – An Alcohol Primer Avoiding a Cocktail for Disaster – Drug Interactions with Alcohol When You Have Lupus Celebrate Good Times – One Ginger Ale at a Time In Conclusion Introduction Well, maybe I’ll just have one. Stop and think seriously about this before having the bartender pour you a lemon drop….

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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…

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Lupus and Employment: Knowing Your Options

Lupus not only can have a profound impact on your physical health, emotional well-being, and personal relationships, it can also have a profound impact on your work and professional life. Introduction Working with Your Employer to Raise Awareness and Feel Valued Making the ADA Work for You Alternative Work Environments When Working isn’t an Option…

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Lupus and the Military – A New Kind of Mission

As the military has seen an increase in the number of women in active duty the last 40 years, there has been a significant increase in the prevalence of lupus in the ranks. Out of the over 200,000 women who serve, over 50% are women of color, mostly black and Hispanic. We already know that…

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