In this episode, our co-hosts Estela and Juana delve deep into the often overlooked but critically important topic of mental health for those living with AiArthritis diseases. They discuss the significant impact these health challenges have on both the body and the mind, supported by eye-opening statistics that 52% of patients with autoimmune diseases are diagnosed with a mental health condition within a year. Tune in to hear Estela and Juana break down the science behind these connections, share their personal experiences and provide practical strategies to manage mental health while navigating life with AiArthritis diseases.

Episode Highlights:

• Defining AiArthritis diseases and their comprehensive impact on mental health
• Discussion on the challenges of living with unpredictable flares
• Juana's personal experience with rheumatoid arthritis and lupus and their impact on her mental health
• Importance of self-care strategies such as rest, nutrition, exercise, and mindfulness techniques.
• Benefits of therapy, counseling, and connecting with social support groups.

Volunteer with AiArthritis : https://bit.ly/AiArthritisVolunteerApp

Donate to Support the Show: https://www.aiarthritis.org/donate

Follow AiArthritis on all social media platforms @IFAiArthritis

Sign up for our Monthly AiArthritis Voices 360 Talk Show newsletter! HERE

Connect with our Co-Hosts:

Estela is the President and co-founder of Looms for Lupus, a nonprofit providing advocacy and support for those affected by Lupus, Fibromyalgia, and mental health issues. With over 30 years in healthcare, she currently supports private practices with electronic medical records and office workflows. Estela co-founded Looms for Lupus in 2011 after her sister's near-fatal battle with Lupus and Immune Thrombocytopenia, channeling her passion into empowering and supporting the community. She collaborates with initiatives to increase diversity in clinical trials and advocates both locally and nationally.

Connect with Estela:

Facebook:@estelamata @looms4lupus

Instagram: @estela_mata @looms4lupus

Twitter: @estelamata @looms4lupus

LinkedIn: @Estela Mata-Carcamo

Website: www.looms4lupus.org

Juana is the co-founder of Looms for Lupus, a nonprofit supporting Lupus survivors, their families, and caregivers. Diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lupus in 2009, she facilitates bilingual support groups and advocates nationally for Lupus, Fibromyalgia, and Mental Health. Juana has served as a patient advisor, consumer advocate, and is a member of several advisory councils and task forces. Professionally, she is a Children's Social Worker for the Los Angeles Department of Children and Family Services.

Connect with Juana:

Facebook: Juana Mata

Instagram: @juany_mata

Twitter: @Matajuanamata

LinkedIn: Juana Mata

AiArthritis Voices 360 is produced by the International Foundation for Autoimmune and Autoinflammatory Arthritis. Visit us on the web at www.aiarthritis.org/talkshow. Find us on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook (@IFAiArthritis) or email us (podcast@aiarthritis.org). Be sure to check out our top-rated show on Feedspot!