The clinical impression exists that Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, a non-organspecific auto-immune disease, has a relatively high coincidence with psychiatric disturbances. In systematic studies since 1950 the reported frequency of psychiatric disturbances varied widely (3-82%). This article offers a review of the literature on the relationship between SLE and psychiatric disorders. Concerning the nature of the relation 7 theoretical viewpoints can be distinguished, which differ with regard to diagnostic and therapeutic consequences. At the same time they can be used as a staring point for future research.