Mental Health
Like all chronic illnesses, lupus takes a central place in your life.
Pain, fatigue, the unpredictability of the disease, and regular medication intake make daily life more difficult.
The symptoms and unpredictable, episodic course of lupus present a major challenge and have profound effects on daily life: on your role as a mother, partner, or father, on your performance at work, in your circle of friends, and in social activities.
You may experience losses: you are no longer as physically fit, have to give up your favorite sport or plan shorter hikes; major life goals suddenly seem unattainable; career planning suffers a setback; important social contacts fizzle out; your financial situation gets out of balance.
Such losses can trigger anxiety, sadness, and hopelessness.
A chronic illness is a great burden for both body and soul.
Persistent overwhelm can lead to depression
Overwhelm – what next?
Around one third of lupus sufferers are severely affected by the chronic illness. Persistent stress can lead to permanent overwhelm and even depression. Depression manifests as low mood, reduced drive, joylessness, concentration problems, and changes in appetite and weight.
The main topic of the magazine “lupus” 2/2020 is “Finding New Hope!”. We recommend this issue: it addresses how to deal with the unpredictable illness of lupus, reports on highs and lows, and provides practical tips on how to regain hope and optimism.
If you suffer from depression, specialist medical treatment is indicated.
Psychotherapy and, if necessary, antidepressants can be effective.
The conscious engagement with lupus, which remains a part of life as a chronic illness, can significantly reduce suffering and permanently increase quality of life. Accepting the chronic illness and adjusting life to it takes time. Informing and involving your environment also takes time. Professional support may be necessary, especially during this adjustment phase.
The involvement of relatives, who are also greatly affected by the illness, is central.
Inquire early enough. Waiting times for psychotherapists are long. Also, inform yourself about the conditions for cost coverage by your health insurance. Since July 1, 2022, basic insurance covers treatment by psychotherapists if the therapy is ordered by a doctor.
What is good for you
- Plan something each day that is good for you.
- Record positive things in a diary or calendar.
- Involve your family members: inform them openly about the illness and how to deal with it. Ask for concrete support and relief.
- Acceptance of the illness and the pain is an important key to dealing positively with lupus. Avoid a persistent struggle against it and find strategies that help you.
- Mindfulness – understood as conscious, sensory living in the here and now – is a key to new quality of life.
Seek help
Lupus can be stressful. It is okay to seek professional help.
Lupus Suisse recommends: Consult a specialist at the latest when you feel persistently sad, down, irritable, or hopeless.
Your first point of contact is your treating physician. Your treating physician can prescribe psychotherapy that is covered by basic insurance. Pay attention to which therapists, for which therapy, and under what conditions health insurance companies cover the costs.
If you need urgent help, want to contact someone by phone, chat, or email, contact 143.ch – The Helping Hand.