How to Deal With Stress, Anxiety, Depression When You Have Psoriasis
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that causes patches of red, scaly skin to develop on the body. It is characterized by red, scaling skin lesions that often appear in patches on the elbows and knees, as well as other less commonly affected areas.
Psoriasis can affect the entire body or just certain parts, such as the scalp or hands.
The most common symptoms include dry, itchy skin and swollen lymph nodes. A few people may experience joint pain or scalp tenderness or swelling triggered by stress. People with psoriasis may also have a higher risk of developing other health conditions, including diabetes, heart disease and depression. Some types of psoriasis are particularly difficult to treat because they can cause widespread inflammation.
Treatments for these types of psoriasis include topical corticosteroids and phototherapy (light therapy). Other therapies include systemic medications such as methotrexate and retinoids, which are effective for moderate to severe psoriasis.
There isn't one single cause for psoriasis, but there are things you can do to reduce your risk of developing it. One common cause is a genetic predisposition, so if your parents or siblings have it, you're more likely to get it too. Another major risk factor is being exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light from sunlight and tanning beds.
Create a routine
People with psoriasis often experience a lot of unpredictable stress. You might be constantly worrying that people are staring at your skin or that you’re going to flare up in front of people. But by finding ways to create more structure in your life, you can help reduce this unexpected stress.
You can find small ways to make your routine a little more predictable: Wear the same outfit every day, have a set time to do chores or create a daily meditation ritual.
Create coping mechanisms for your Psoriasis
With psoriasis and stress, it’s important to find appropriate ways to cope with upsetting situations. Some people find that writing in a journal or talking to a friend is helpful; others prefer to exercise, take a bath or listen to music while they process their emotions.
People with psoriasis often find that their best coping mechanism is to distract themselves from their symptoms as much as possible. Try to avoid getting sucked into a spiral of negative thoughts about your condition.
Interested in Journaling? Amazon has a wonderful starter Journal Titled “ My Life With Psoriasis Daily Journal: Lined Journal For Documenting Symptoms, Treatment, Struggles And Goals'' Check it out !
(Paid Link)
Try not to internalize the Stigma
One of the most important ways to deal with stress and anxiety related to psoriasis is to avoid internalizing the stigma that comes with having the condition. People with psoriasis are often misunderstood, and you may feel shame or guilt about having the condition. But remember: It’s not your fault, and it’s not something you can control.
Psoriasis is a real medical condition that affects an estimated 7.5 million American adults, so don’t let the stigma make you feel bad about yourself. Instead, focus on your strengths and the ways you’re beating the condition.
Join a support group for people with psoriasis
A support group can be a great place to connect with people who understand what you’re going through. Online groups are particularly good for finding like-minded people since you can connect with people all over the world who have the same condition as you.
You can also connect with people who have experience dealing with the stress of psoriasis — many of these groups are led by mental health professionals who can help you find ways to better manage your stress.
A great resource for all things Psoriasis is The National Psoriasis Foundation .
There is a Support & Community section that lists the resources available to everyone that is meant to help guide & support you , connect you with people near or far from you that you relate to or teach you how to support a loved one or even a stranger.
These resources are not only just F R E E but they can help you in person as well as virtually.
First resource they offer is the Patient Navigation Center
For your questions, concerns, and more.
Click through the main webpage interface and you will be connected with a Patient Navigator who will assist you by answering any questions or concerns about the disease, treatments, insurance, etc.
They will be there for you from the talks about treatments to your health insurance. Your patient navigator is there for you.
“ Personalized, compassionate, and free.”-NPF
Second resource they offer is Peer Connections.
This section is for when you just need someone to talk to. It is a One on One program that will match you with another person who has crossed where you are and can provide you with guidance.
August is National Psoriasis Awareness Month !
Browse awareness shirts here or Bracelet here!
(paid links)
Third resource they offer is their Our Spot for Youth and Parents
Psoriatic disease is especially difficult for children to deal with.
They teach about psoriatic disease and care through what is called “Our Spot's” webinars, receive suggestions on how to talk to teachers, friends, and even bullies, and download school resources. In addition, you can read about psoriatic disease from children across the country who are living and thriving from psoriatic disease. It's all free over on Our Spot by NPF .
Fourth resource they offer is their In Our Area
Take part in fundraising events, attend talks and workshops, lend your voice to state and federal advocacy initiatives, or volunteer in your community. Get involved. Meet More People.
Fifth resource they offer is Talk Psoriasis- Twill Care
Twill Care is the NPF official Partner. They believe it is easier to navigate your journey when important resources are available to you. Twill care provides tools, information and tips from experts and others just like you ALL IN ONE PLACE!
Focus on the positives of having Psoriasis
You may not be able to change your skin condition, but you can change the way you think about it.
Psychologist Philip G. Zimbardo famously conducted an experiment in which he asked a group of people to “imagine walking down a street and seeing a splatter of blood on the sidewalk,” and another group to “imagine walking down the same street and seeing a splattered red paint.”
The first group’s anxiety levels rose, while the second stayed the same. In other words, your thoughts can have a huge impact on how stressed you feel.
So if you’re feeling really anxious about your psoriasis, try to focus on the positives of having it. You might not be able to change your skin condition, but you can change how you think about it
Don’t forget to laugh
Laughter is the best medicine, as the saying goes. In fact, studies show that laughter has many benefits, including reduced stress levels, more positive outlook and better immune system.
If your psoriasis is really bad, it can be easy to get down on yourself and stress out. But finding ways to laugh and brighten your mood can help you cope with the condition.
Try to find the humor in the awkwardness of the situation, or check out funny YouTube videos — whatever works for you.
Take Care of Your Body
Taking care of your body is one of the best ways to deal with stress and anxiety. You may not be able to control your psoriasis, but you can control how you deal with it.
Eating healthy, sleeping enough and exercising can help improve your mental health and decrease your stress levels. You may not be able to stop the condition from flaring up, but you can take steps to make yourself feel better in the meantime.
Wrapping up how to deal with Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a painful and stressful condition. People with psoriasis often feel anxious, depressed and stressed because of the social stigma associated with it. Create coping mechanisms for your psoriasis, focus on the positives of having psoriasis, join a support group for people with psoriasis, create a routine and don’t internalize the stigma. Take care of your body and don’t forget to laugh. By taking care of yourself, you’ll be better equipped to handle any stress that comes your way.
Disclaimer: Body Health Outlet nor the author of this blog own the product(s) reviewed in any blog or posting. Nor should the contents of this blog be construed as medical advice. Always consult your physician before making changes in your diet plan. This blog should be used for informational purposes only. Additionally please note that : as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases
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