Setting Realistic Health Goals with Lupus |
|
|
|
At the beginning of every year, we try to set new goals for ourselves. Living with Lupus can be very challenging, and it may be easy to overlook your successes of 2024. This is a good time to reflect on what worked for you and what you learned. Also, recognizing your struggles can help you determine where you may need to focus on next in 2025. |
|
|
|
Consider Using the SMART Goal Method. It is a framework for setting clear, focused goals that can be effectively tracked and achieved within a defined timeframe. Setting small and achievable goals for living with your lupus can help you start to reclaim control over your life and health. You do not need to completely resolve all of your symptoms to get some relief and return to doing the activities you love and enjoy. Goals you set can help you reduce your symptoms and increase your ability to get things done. For example, your goals can involve hobbies, relaxation, exercise, socializing, and housework.
SMART stands for:
S-Specific- Describe exactly what you are going to do
M-Measurable- Provide a way to evaluate success.
A-Achievable- Make sure you have the time and resources you need.
R- Realistic- Make sure it is an achievable, sustainable goal.
T-Time-bound- Set a start date, frequency and deadline.
For more tips to quickly boost motivation for health habits, read How People with Lupus Can Build and Maintain Motivation for Health Habits. |
|
|
|
|
Study Highlight: SHIELD Study
Hydroxychloroquine has been a standard of care practice for treating patients with lupus, but long-term use can increase the risk retinal toxicity.
We have a new and enrolling study at HSS called the SHIELD Study - Effects of Stopping Hydroxychloroquine In Elderly Lupus Disease. This clinical trial will determine the safety of stopping hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) in stable lupus patients who are 60 years of older. Learn more about the study criteria to participate |
|
|
|
|
|
In recognition of the upcoming Lupus Awareness Month, we are excited to offer a variety of programming events throughout May, covering a range of important topics. Our Living Healthy with Lupus event will be held in person, and we will also offer several webinars that you can attend virtually. Stay tuned for more details, we’ll be sharing the full schedule next month.
If we missed you at our 2024 Lupus Awareness Month Events, feel free to watch our recordings to stay up to date:
Living Life Healthy with Lupus - Laura Geraldino-Pardilla, MD, MSc, Rheumatologist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center presents on “Organ Involvement in SLE: Focusing on Lupus Nephritis & Cardiovascular Disease
Managing Fatigue & Pain with Lupus - Jennifer Lee Rogers, MD, Rheumatologist and Associate Professor of Medicine at Duke Health, shares her expertise related to fatigue and pain management while living with lupus.
Update on New Therapies - HSS Rheumatologist Kyriakos Kirou, MD and HSS Fellow Romy Kallas, MD, share an update on new therapies for lupus, including CAR-T cell therapy.
Navigating the Transition from Pediatric to Adult Rheumatology Care - Dr. Alexa Adams, Pediatric Rheumatologist and Dr. Caroline Siegel, Adult Rheumatologist at Hospital for Special Surgery, discuss navigating a successful transition from pediatric to adult care. |
|
|
Back in the Game Patient Stories |
|
HSS is dedicated to helping our patients with lupus and APS feel their best and engage in all of life’s activities, both big and small. Many of our lupus and APS patients have overcome major health challenges to improve their quality of life and reach their personal goals, working closely with their HSS health care team in the process. You can inspire other people living with lupus and APS by sharing your personal story on the HSS Back in the Game patient forum. |
|
|
|
We encourage you to join our growing community and increase awareness, hope and support for people living with these conditions. |
| Share Your Story |
|
|
|
For any questions or help with this process, please contact Allyson Peysner, Manager of the Lupus & APS Center of Excellence at peysnera@hss.edu. |
|
|
