An overview of psychological functioning in systemic lupus erythematosus

Abstract

This article provides an overview of the role of psychological factors and psychiatric disorders in the adjustment to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and how to conceptualize their relationship with disease activity. Depression and anxiety disorders are highly prevalent in SLE. Depression poses a variety of health risks for afflicted patients and is associated with increased healthcare utilization and work disability. In addition, research has also shown that factors such as illness beliefs, coping, social support and life stress affect SLE health outcomes, highlighting the need for psychological screening and management. The contribution of psychological factors and disease activity to lupus fatigue is analyzed, emphasizing the importance of a multidimensional approach to understanding this troublesome symptom that affects the majority of SLE patients. At present, there is little behavioral intervention research in SLE. The findings suggest that a closer alliance between rheumatology, behavioral medicine and health psychology would facilitate SLE research and clinical care in the future. © 2011 Future Medicine Ltd.