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Dealing with a long-lasting disease like lupus can be hard on the emotions. Concerns about your health and the effects of your lupus on your work and family life can be stressful. Changes in the way you look and other physical effects of lupus and the medicines used to treat lupus can bring on body image issues and affect self-esteem. Your friends, family, and coworkers might not seem to understand how you feel. At times, you might feel sad or angry. Or, that you have no control over your life with lupus. But there are things you can do that will help you to cope and to keep a good outlook:
Pace yourself. People with lupus have limited energy and must manage it wisely. Most women with lupus feel much better when they get enough rest and avoid taking on too much at home and at work. To do this, pay attention to your body. Slow down or stop before you're too tired. Learn to pace yourself. Spread out your work and other activities.
Reduce stress. Exercising with your doctor's okay, finding ways to relax, and staying involved in social activities you enjoy will reduce stress and help you to cope.
Get support. Be open about your feelings and needs with family members and close friends. Consider support groups or counseling. They can help you to see that you are not alone. Group members teach one another how to enjoy life with lupus.
Talk to your doctor. The symptoms of lupus and some medications can bring on feelings of depression. Don't be afraid to talk to your doctor about these feelings.
Learn about lupus. People who are well-informed and involved in their own care have less pain; make fewer visits to the doctor; feel better about themselves; and remain more active.
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services