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A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Huntersville, NC

I personally have PTSD from years ago, and my doctors have explained that what happened to me "awakened" my Lupus. That there’s a connection between long-term stress/PTSD and the development or worsening of autoimmune diseases like lupus.

Does anyone here also have PTSD or a history of trauma?
Have you noticed any connection between stress/trauma and your symptoms?

December 5, 2025
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Reactions
A MyLupusTeam Member

Stress is definitely linked to lupus, I would agree. Gabor Matte, a Canadian physician who is an expert in trauma and addiction, has written about this in his book "The Myth of Normal."

December 6, 2025
A MyLupusTeam Member

I am one who developed Lupus after a traumatic experience.

December 5, 2025
MyLupusTeam

How are PTSD, trauma, stress connected to lupus development or flare-ups?

Research shows a clear connection between psychological stressors and lupus. People with a history of depression, PTSD, and childhood abuse (physical, emotional, or sexual) have a higher risk of developing systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Stress as a Show Full Answer

How are PTSD, trauma, stress connected to lupus development or flare-ups?

Research shows a clear connection between psychological stressors and lupus. People with a history of depression, PTSD, and childhood abuse (physical, emotional, or sexual) have a higher risk of developing systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Stress as a Trigger

Physical and emotional stress are well-known triggers that researchers believe can encourage lupus to develop. Many people experience their first lupus symptoms after stressful events such as:

- Experiencing a traumatic injury
- Losing a loved one
- Getting divorced
- Undergoing surgery
- Giving birth

Impact on Flare-Ups

Stress is one of the most common and challenging flare triggers for people with lupus. This stress can come from heightened emotions or external factors like work and everyday life. Studies during the COVID-19 pandemic found that people with lupus were at much higher risk for mental health issues like generalized anxiety disorder, depression, and insomnia.

Some find themselves in a challenging cycle where anxiety about stress itself becomes problematic. A MyLupusTeam member shared, "I know stress causes flare-ups, but then I stress about not stressing."

Managing stress effectively is crucial for both your physical and emotional health. Your healthcare provider can help you find strategies that work best for you.

December 5, 2025
A MyLupusTeam Member

Absolutely! Many years of back-to-back tragedies I believe awakened my Lupus. I knew something was wrong when my long thick hair started dropping everywhere in my bathroom when I took a shower or just brushing it out and leaving hunks in my brush. It wasn't until some 5 yrs later that Lupus reared its ugly head for me.

December 27, 2025
A MyLupusTeam Member

Yes

December 25, 2025

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