Day-to-day life with lupus can be challenging and take a toll on your mental health. A study examined the prevalence of people with depression and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and found depression was highly prevalent, but often undiagnosed.
The study included 40 people (37 female; 3 male) with SLE who had no history of depression or anxiety. Each individual completed a survey that captured their socio-demographic information, mental health activity, and SLE disease activity. Researchers evaluated depression levels using the Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) scale, which is used to diagnose severe depression, and found a direct correlation between SLE disease activity and depression. Of the group, 38 of the 40 participants had some degree of depression with 20% mild, 37.5% moderate, and 37.5% severe depression. Furthermore, the research suggests that SLE disease activity and severity plays a role in the intensity of depression and anxiety.
Treating depression is vital to managing lupus disease activity and improving quality of life. While treatments for lupus are important to help control and manage symptoms, mental health cannot be neglected by healthcare providers. Learn more about managing your mental health with lupus.
Do you think you may suffer from Depression and live in Florida, California or New York?If so, please consider scheduling a proper virtual online ADHD and Depression diagnosis with one of our physicians. Although we have an online ADHD and Anxiety diagnosis tool, a proper diagnosis from a Board-Certified Medical Doctor will help you know for sure. If appropriate, a customized treatment program will be recommended at the conclusion of that initial visit. |