Mental health
Like all chronic conditions, lupus plays a central role in your life.
Pain, fatigue, the unpredictable nature of the illness and the need to take medication regularly make everyday life difficult.
The symptoms and unpredictable, relapsing-remitting nature of lupus pose a major challenge and have a profound impact on everyday life: on one’s role as a mother and partner, on one’s role as a father, on one’s ability to perform at work, within one’s circle of friends, and in social activities.
You may find yourself facing a number of setbacks: you are no longer as physically fit as you used to be, you have to give up your favourite sport or plan shorter walks; your major life goals suddenly seem out of reach; your career plans hit a snag; important social connections fizzle out; your finances start to go awry.
These losses can trigger feelings of anxiety, sadness and hopelessness.
A chronic illness is a challenge for both body and mind.
Constant stress can lead to depression
Feeling overwhelmed – what next?
Around a third of people with lupus suffer greatly from their debilitating chronic condition. Prolonged stress can lead to constant feelings of being overwhelmed, and even depression. Depression is characterised by low mood, reduced energy levels, a lack of joy, difficulty concentrating, or a loss of appetite and changes in weight.
The main theme of the magazine “lupus” 2/2020 is: ‘Finding new hope!’ We highly recommend this issue. It explores how to cope with the unpredictable condition of lupus, covering both the highs and the lows. Above all, you’ll find tips on how to rediscover hope and optimism.
Treatment by a specialist is recommended for depression.
Psychotherapy and, if necessary, antidepressants can be effective.
Coming to terms with lupus – a chronic condition that will remain a part of your life – can significantly reduce your suffering and improve your quality of life in the long term. Accepting this chronic condition, adapting your life to it, informing those around you and involving them… all of this takes time! Professional support may be particularly necessary during this period of adjustment.
It is absolutely vital to involve family members, who are also deeply affected by the illness!
Please note: Make sure you enquire well in advance, as waiting times for psychotherapists are long! You should also find out about the conditions for your health insurance to cover the costs. Since 1 July 2022, basic health insurance has covered treatment by psychotherapists if the therapy is prescribed by a doctor.
What’s good for you
- Make sure you do something every day that does you good.
- Make a note of positive things in a diary or calendar.
- Involve your family: be open about the illness and how you are coping with it. Ask for specific support and help to lighten the load.
- Accepting the condition and the pain is key to managing lupus positively. Avoid constantly fighting it and find strategies that will help you.
- Mindfulness – understood as living consciously and fully in the here and now – is the key to a better quality of life.
Get help
Lupus can be a real struggle. It’s perfectly fine to seek professional help.
lupus suisse recommends that you consult a specialist at the latest if you are feeling persistently sad, down, irritable or hopeless.
Your first point of contact is your GP. They can prescribe psychotherapy, the cost of which is covered by your health insurance (basic cover). Make sure you check which therapists are covered, which types of therapy are eligible, and under what conditions the health insurance will cover the costs!
If you need urgent help and would like to get in touch with someone by phone, chat or email, please contact 143.ch – The Helping Hand.