November 7, 2018

Study results presented at the American College of Rheumatology provided scientific evidence for what we all intuitively know –supporting other people helps the giver too.

An evaluation was conducted with counselors participating in a national toll-free phone peer counseling service hosted by the Hospital for Special Surgery. It assessed how their role as helpers providing emotional support for people with lupus and their families affects their own ability to cope with the disease.

64% of participants reported coping better with their lupus since they became a peer counselor. In addition, 91% indicated being very satisfied with their supportive role. Their reasons for taking on this counseling role included helping others affected by SLE (100%) & enhancing personal growth/ development (73%).

As a vital member of the Lupus Research Alliance community, you can also give to others while helping yourself by sharing your strength and wisdom on our Community Forum page.