Dallas County Health Dept. Discusses Autoimmune Awareness

Official details how residents can support those with autoimmune diseases

Mar. 31, 2026 at 3:32pm

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A ghostly, translucent X-ray image of an inflamed joint, glowing with an inner light against a dark background, conceptually illustrating the unseen pain of autoimmune diseases.An X-ray view of the hidden inflammation and discomfort caused by autoimmune diseases, which often have invisible symptoms.Dallas Today

March is Autoimmune Awareness Month, and a Dallas County Health Department official is providing guidance on how community members can support those in their lives living with autoimmune diseases, which can cause a range of debilitating symptoms.

Why it matters

Autoimmune diseases are often chronic, unpredictable, and invisible to others, so having a supportive community can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected. By understanding the challenges and offering practical help, residents can improve the mental health and overall well-being of those living with these conditions.

The details

Community Health Educator Natalie Del Vecchio explains that autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's healthy cells and tissues, leading to inflammation and pain. She notes there are over 80 different autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis, with symptoms that can vary widely but often include persistent fatigue, joint pain, and muscle aches.

  • March is Autoimmune Awareness Month.

The players

Natalie Del Vecchio

A Community Health Educator at the Dallas County Health Department.

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What they’re saying

“These diseases are usually chronic and unpredictable and sometimes invisible to others, so having that feeling of support can reduce stress and improve mental health. And that may also help improve symptoms of the disease. So if you know someone who has an autoimmune disease, you can help by first just understanding that their condition might not always be visible and that their symptoms can change from day-to-day, so being patient and flexible with them when making plans is important.”

— Natalie Del Vecchio, Community Health Educator

The takeaway

By fostering a supportive community for those living with autoimmune diseases, residents can make a meaningful difference in the lives of their neighbors and loved ones, helping to alleviate the physical and mental burdens of these often-invisible conditions.