Anxiety and sadness are natural reactions to a diagnosis of a chronic disease with an uncertain outcome. Learning more about the disease will bring you a measure of control over the situation, help you develop a more positive attitude and alleviate the helplessness that leads to emotional distress.
Remember that disease affects not only the person who gets diagnosed, but also the family and friends who care about the person. Sometimes, family members are angry about the burden of ill health. Moreover, they may fear changes in lifestyle or in the relationship. As everyone adjusts to the new situation, however, those initial fears should subside. A positive attitude is crucial — not only to the person newly diagnosed with lupus, but to his or her family and friends, as well.