05/31/2026
May is Lupus AND Mental Health Awareness Month.
As a woman living with lupus for 21 years & 7 years of remission, advocacy has become my duty & passion.💜💚
People with lupus face significantly higher rates of depression & anxiety. Mental health challenges in lupus can stem from a variety of causes, including direct neurological impacts of the disease, side effects of medications (like steroids), and the emotional toll of living with a chronic, unpredictable illness.
Why Lupus Affects Mental Health⤵️
Neuropsychiatric Lupus: When lupus affects the central nervous system (CNS), it can cause “lupus fog” (memory issues & confusion), mood swings, headaches & in some cases, anxiety and depression.
Medication Side Effects: Corticosteroids like prednisone are known to cause mood changes, anxiety & clinical depression—especially at higher doses.
Chronic Pain and Fatigue: Constant physical discomfort, isolation from fatigue & changes in appearance (such as rashes or weight changes) heavily impact self-esteem & emotional well-being.
Common Symptoms to Watch For⤵️
”Lupus Fog”: Trouble concentrating, forgetfulness & general difficulty thinking.
Mood Disorders: Unexplained feelings of severe sadness, irritability, or panic.
Behavioral Changes: Severe fatigue causing a loss of interest in socializing or completing daily tasks.
If you’re living with lupus & experiencing mental health struggles, know that you’re not alone & your feelings are valid.🫶🏽
Sources⤵️
1. https://www.lupus.org/resources/lupus-and-depression-know-the-signs-and-how-to-get-help
2. https://www.lupus.org/blog/lupus-and-mental-health
3. https://www.hss.edu/health-library/conditions-and-treatments/effects-lupus-medications-mood
4. https://www.lupusresearch.org/5-facts-about-lupus-mental-health/
5. https://www.epilepsy.com/complications-risks/moods-behavior
6. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C_K1qDY667c&t=6
7. https://www.bannerhealth.com/services/rheumatology/conditions/lupus/symptoms-and-diagnosis
8. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5324435/
9. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10634407/