Sharing Your Diagnosis with Others

Fast Facts

• You and your rheumatology provider will work together to create a plan to manage your rheumatic disease.
• You don’t have to share your diagnosis with anyone until you’re ready. Your health is private, and you can choose when and how to talk about it.

Sharing with Your Family and Close Friends

The people closest to you, like your spouse, partner, family, and close friends, may have noticed you’ve been having symptoms. It’s important to tell them about your diagnosis so they can support you as you manage your condition and treatment plan. You can share basic information about your diagnosis, including what symptoms you have and the treatments available. You can use brochures or other materials to help explain it.

Let them know that you and your rheumatology team are working together to create the best plan for managing your condition so you can continue living a full and happy life. You can also talk about any challenges you may face doing certain activities and what help you might need.

If you have young children, explain that you may have to take medicine or shots to feel better. Let them know you can still do many fun things together, like playing games or going on trips.

At Your Workplace

You might want to tell your employer about your diagnosis because your condition could require you to miss work for rheumatologist’s appointments or if you’re feeling unwell.

Talk with your rheumatology provider about how your diagnosis may affect your job. Discuss what modifications you may need or if an evaluation by an occupational therapist might help to modify your work setting or arrangements.

You may need a letter or document from your rheumatologist to give to your employer for any workplace changes or benefits.

earn about your rights as an employee. Laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act protect workers who need changes to do their job. Many states also have programs to help people with disabilities keep working.

Talk privately with your supervisor or human resource department to explain your diagnosis. Bring information to help them understand what challenges you might face.

Updated March 2025 by Meredith Hirsh, MBA, and reviewed by the American College of Rheumatology Committee on Communications and Marketing.

This information provided for general education only. Individuals should consult a qualified health care provider for professional medical advice, diagnosis and treatment of a medical or health condition.