How can you manage fear and worry about lupus symptoms affecting your vacation and happiness?
It's completely understandable to feel anxious when symptoms keep popping up unexpectedly. Many people with lupus struggle with this exact fear of what might happen next.
The key is recognizing that fear about outcomes beyond your Show Full Answer
How can you manage fear and worry about lupus symptoms affecting your vacation and happiness?
It's completely understandable to feel anxious when symptoms keep popping up unexpectedly. Many people with lupus struggle with this exact fear of what might happen next.
The key is recognizing that fear about outcomes beyond your control can actually add to your pain and distress. A MyLupusTeam member shared that once they consciously decided to relieve themselves of that burden, they could better focus on managing their lupus.
Here are some strategies that have helped others:
Focus on the present moment
- When your mind worries about the past or future, it increases anxiety and can worsen pain
- Practice bringing yourself back to the present, where you have what you need right now
- Meditation can help train your mind to stay present rather than darting between worries
Replace fear-based thinking
- When making choices, ask yourself if they'll cultivate unity and love or separation and stress
- Thank your fears for helping you survive, then wave goodbye to them
- Recognize that panic is the enemy, not lupus itself Shift your perspective
- Remember "the days are long, but the years are short" - focus on ALL the happiness in your life, not just day-to-day aches and pains
- Start each day with meditation and focus on what you want to accomplish
- Practice daily gratefulness for the happy moments you've already experienced
Let go of what you can't control
- Life is too short to try controlling everything - it's exhausting
- The freedom that comes from letting go of things causing pain is indescribable
- Organize your thoughts or environment as a way to process feelings of lost control
Even during difficult times, it's possible to experience joy and happiness. Having lupus doesn't mean you're completely miserable - you can be in pain and still be happy. Those aren't mutually exclusive.
Consider reaching out for support when fear feels overwhelming. Many find that addressing anxiety and depression is key to helping with pain and overall health.
February 19
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