Sue

[Srichards]

Hi I was diagnosed with lupus just after xmas also I have had depression and anxiety for 4 yrs can't seem to shake it sometimes I just sleep most of the time and get a stiff elbow I've seen a consultant and my doctors the doctors can't explain more into it and my consultant isn't much help either I've also got diabetes 2 and high blood pressure al diagnosed after xmas I was on esa because I've not been myself and just stopped it and now have to be on job seekers I can't stop feeling down and just feel so fed up one because I have no energy and two because no one you speak to knows anything about lupus and what benefits I can get as I did have my own dog walking business which I worked around my 5 year old little boy.

[Penguintaz]

Hi there Sue,

Are you on any medication for your diagnosis? Both for Lupus and your mental health. I am sad to hear that your doctors aren't being helpful, you should have a rheumatheropist who will have more specialist knowledge. Lupus UK have some helpful free leaflets about Lupus but it is a hard illness to explain because it effects people differently at different amounts. Fatigue, mouth ulcers, joint pain and a facial rash are very common symptoms though.

In the UK you can apply for PIP which is taking over from the disability allowance, Lupus UK again offers some assistance for this. I'm not certain what conditions need to be met to get this but if you have a look I think applying for it is not too difficult.

I hope this was a bit helpful!

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK]

Hi Srichards ,

I'm sorry to hear that you are so low at the moment. Have you discussed your depression and anxiety with your doctor to see if they can offer any antidepressant treatment and/or refer you for psychotherapy?

If you would like more information about lupus and depression, and the support services that are available, please take a look at our leaflet here - lupusuk.org.uk/lupus-and-de...

Were you in the work-related activity group (WRAG) for ESA? Are you able to re-apply for ESA if you still feel unable to return to work? Have you applied for Personal Independence Payments (PIP)? If you need more information and guidance about disability benefits we have some guides available for members of LUPUS UK. You can read more about this at lupusuk.org.uk/benefits/