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Some say stress doesn't equate to flare ups.....

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Houston, TX

I will never believe this! Stress, especially oxidative stress sinks in the body and the body keeps all score of every trauma, event, happening and thing in our lives. I realize it's not all fully avoidable, however, it is something that can be worked thru.....

What are your thoughts on lupus and stress?

September 7
 · 
Reactions
MyLupusTeam

The connection between stress and lupus flares is very real, and many people living with lupus would absolutely agree with this perspective. Stress — whether emotional, physical, or psychological — is consistently one of the most commonly reported flare triggers in the lupus community.

A MyLupusTeam member once shared Show Full Answer

The connection between stress and lupus flares is very real, and many people living with lupus would absolutely agree with this perspective. Stress — whether emotional, physical, or psychological — is consistently one of the most commonly reported flare triggers in the lupus community.

A MyLupusTeam member once shared something that really captures the frustration: "I know stress causes flare-ups, but then I stress about not stressing." That feedback loop is exhausting, and it's a very real experience for many. The good news is, as noted, stress *can* be worked through. Here are some approaches that many in the lupus community swear by:

- Music and sound — calming playlists or nature sounds to reset the mood
- Warm baths — especially with Epsom salts, to soothe the body
- Gentle movement — walking, yoga, or stretching as tolerated
- Creative outlets — crafts or projects that redirect focus away from worry
- Mindfulness — staying present without judgment
- Spiritual grounding — prayer or faith practices for inner peace
- Talking it out — with trusted loved ones or others who truly understand

The key is finding what works *for you*, since lupus and stress responses can look very different from person to person. If stress ever feels truly unmanageable or starts affecting sleep and daily functioning, checking in with a healthcare provider is always a worthwhile step. Support — in all its forms — is something everyone deserves. 💙

September 7
A MyLupusTeam Member

I have learned that if I do not manage my stress I break out in itchy and burning hives.

September 8
A MyLupusTeam Member

@A MyLupusTeam Member everything that I have read mentions stress as one of the triggers of SLE and CLE... If you think about our bodies, stress can break us down. Stress can lead to heart attacks and other issues. So, yes stress can trigger lupus... I have always tried to have a peaceful, stress-free environment. It means not having people in your life that causes stress. It means avoiding environments, when you can, that causes stress. It means finding things that bring you joy and help you relieve stress. Reading and working out helps me relieve and avoid stress.

September 7 (edited)
A MyLupusTeam Member

@A MyLupusTeam Member all of this!! Well and wise words for everyone 👏🏾 💜 Full mode of wellness and wholeness to create and get ahead of stress.

September 7
A MyLupusTeam Member

@A MyLupusTeam Member 🙏🏾🙏🏾 yes stress creates way too much!! And i agree lean on loved ones, friends, support groups and first God 🙏🏾

September 7

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