Body Image, Self Esteem and Rheumatic Conditions - Patient Voices

You are more than your condition.
Rheumatic conditions like Lupus, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Scleroderma and Sjogren's Syndrome affect people in a myriad ways. These often create body image issues and impact self esteem.
We speak with patient leaders Kirtida Oza, Neetu Wadhwa, Vachasamrita, Ami Shah and Mental health therapist Arouba Kabir on the common issues faced by persons with Rheumatic Conditions and how they can reclaim their self esteem.
1. What is body image?
2. How do rheumatic conditions like Lupus, Sjogrens, Scleroderma and Ankylosing Spondilytis impact the patients physically - hair loss, pigmentation, weight gain, stretch marks
3. How these physical changes impact self esteem and their relationship with spouse, children, family, colleagues and friends - fatigue, inability to plan, withdrawing from social life,
4. What can people do to cope with these feelings
5. Key takeaways - Acceptance, Find Purpose, Importance of exercise, Find your tribe/ support group
Related Links:
Kirtida on Invisible Illnesses: www.patientsen...
• Living Better With Sjo...
Neetu Wadhwa: www.patientsen...
Lupus: www.patientsen...
Ankylosing Spondylitis: www.patientsen...