How psoriasis affects your mental health

Living with psoriasis, a chronic skin condition, is not just about managing physical symptoms. It also has significant mental health and wellness aspects that need to be addressed.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of the skin. There are several types of psoriasis although the most common – which affects up to 90% of psoriasis sufferers – is commonly known as plaque psoriasis. Its symptoms include the formation of discoloured and flaky skin patches. These areas are called plaques.

Unfortunately, psoriasis is a chronic skin condition so no matter how successful temporary treatments prove to be, there is as yet no known cure, and it will resurface in patients from time to time.

Because of its visible external appearance, psoriasis can make patients embarrassed about presenting themselves in public or social environments.

Self-stigmatisation and the fear of rejection affect their personal, social and sexual lives, resulting in psychological strain and even suicidal thoughts that come from isolation and a sense of shame.

Because psoriasis is often triggered by stress, patients can find themselves in an escalation cycle in which the psoriasis and depression amplify each other.

There is therefore a clear need to address the psychological elements of psoriasis – your mental well-being – alongside its physical aspects in the pursuit of better outcomes.

Medical News Today reports that mental health professionals – which could include psychologists, counsellors, therapists, clinical social workers and psychiatrists – should be a part of the team of specialists that provides support to psoriasis patients. Others include one’s primary care provider, pharmacist and – if one’s budget or medical aid allow – a dermatologist, rheumatologist, dietitian and an occupational therapist.