Women Coping with Chronic Disease: The Psychosocial Impact of Lupus
September 2013
in “
Journal of Social Service Research
”
TLDR Lupus causes emotional and social challenges, but support from friends helps reduce depression and anxiety.
This cross-sectional study of 92 women with lupus identified key psychosocial challenges, particularly linking frequent flare-ups, hair loss, and recent hospitalizations to increased depression, anxiety, and socioeconomic difficulties. Hair loss had the most significant impact on these emotional states. Additionally, having supportive friends was found to reduce depression and anxiety, while fatigue was highly correlated with anxiety. The study provided evidence-based recommendations for social workers to better support lupus patients.