Sharing Your Experiences with Lupus May Improve Quality of Life

A new study out of China finds that increased self-disclosure –the process by which individuals voluntarily tell others about themselves and share their thoughts and feelings – is linked with better quality of life in people with lupus. In general, healthy and socially well-adjusted people demonstrate high levels of self-disclosure, and previous studies have shown that self-disclosure is linked to physical and emotional well-being.

A total of 161 people hospitalized with lupus were part of the study and researchers found that 63.4% of study participants demonstrated low to moderate levels of self-disclosure. The participants answered a questionnaire which asked about quality of life in multiple areas, including physical, emotional, and social health. The study revealed that self-disclosure was associated with several positive outcomes, including:

• Less pain • More intimate relationships
• Reduced burden to others
• Better emotional health
• Increased body positivity

While better social support was notably associated with higher levels of self-disclosure, lower levels of self-disclosure were linked with depression and alcohol consumption.

This research highlights the importance of social connection and emotional support for those living with lupus. Learn about how close friendships help with coping.

Read the study