Importance of temporality and context in relation to life habit restrictions among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A psychosocial qualitative study

Objective Life habits (LH) encompass an individual’s engagement in daily activities such as nutrition, fitness, personal care, communication, housing, and mobility, along with his/her social role (responsibility, interpersonal relationships, community life, education, employment, and recreation). This qualitative study explores the nature and context of LH restrictions in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) individuals across their SLE journey. Methods Narrative interviews were conducted with adult SLE patients. Interview transcripts were subjected to a thematic content analysis, using the Disability Creation Process model as a framework. Results Forty participants were interviewed. Three major themes were highlighted: (1) Temporality, capabilities, and environmental contexts: although all participants experienced LH restrictions at some point, the expression of these limitations depended on the individual’s and SLE disease characteristics as well as on temporal (time of life and lupus course) and environmental (material, social, and societal) contexts. (2) Identity issues, illness stigma, and (fear of) discriminations: LH were discussed through the lens of participants’ social roles and identities. While illness stigma can influence social relations, it is also expressed at a societal level. (3) Masking and minimizing strategies: due to illness stigma and fear of discrimination, participants developed strategies to manage their relationships, including masking and minimization. Their use was both advantageous and disadvantageous regarding LH. Conclusions For individuals with SLE, LH restrictions must be considered as an ongoing process that takes place within specific contexts. Our findings provide many opportunities for interventions that can benefit patients and their families, as well as healthcare providers.