Fear, faith, pain, and strength: Meanings attributed to systemic lupus erythematosus by Brazilian patients – A mixed-methods study

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a prevalent chronic autoimmune disease, with about 5 million cases worldwide. This study aimed to understand the meanings attributed to illness by individuals with SLE. A national mixed-methods study was conducted with an exploratory focus. Data were collected online from 663 Brazilian adults through a sociodemographic questionnaire and the Free Association of Ideas Technique. Lexical analysis was performed using IRaMuTeQ, identifying four thematic classes: (1) Challenges and Coping Efforts in Daily Life with Lupus, (2) Physical Repercussions of Illness, (3) Resilience and Resistance in Coping with the Disease, and (4) Emotional and Psychological Repercussions of Illness. Results reveal how SLE affects various life dimensions, physical, emotional, and social and highlight coping mechanisms such as faith, strength, and acceptance. The study emphasizes the relevance of psychosocial support and the need to address social determinants of health to promote well-being among individuals with SLE.