There's been a lot made of recent research that people suffering with psoriasis feel depressed and the psoriasis association are asking those of us with the condition to discuss the psychological impact it has had on us over the years.
Social isolation, low self esteem and poor body image can have shattering consequences for those who suffer with psoriasis. It is well known that social isolation leads to depression, self harm and in the worst cases, suicide.
Over my lifetime with psoriasis I can't say I've had an easy time of it but I am mature enough now to realise and appreciate that if I hadn't been bullied at a child for my skin condition it would have been because I was smart, my social class or any number of other factors that was different. The skin was the most obvious, visual, thing about me.
When I read articles and blogs about the psychological effects of psoriasis I can't help but wonder a few things... Firstly, how long have these people had psoriasis? If not long the I can understand the anger and depression process. Secondly, how old are they? Teens and sub 50's with psoriasis seem to struggle more psychologically with psoriasis. Thirdly, what sex are they? Females are bombarded with images of the "perfect" body every day so I guess that has to play a major part in the development of low self-esteem.
Finally... And this is the biggie... Am I just a freak in that I have never been negatively impacted psychologically by having psoriasis... I never say I suffer, I live with it. I don't hide it away from anyone and wear what I like when I like... Does this relate to the length of time I have lived with psoriasis? It's been all I have ever really known.....
I often think of passing these thoughts and opinions on to the psoriasis association here in the UK but my story is not the kind of story they are looking for.
Social isolation, low self esteem and poor body image can have shattering consequences for those who suffer with psoriasis. It is well known that social isolation leads to depression, self harm and in the worst cases, suicide.
Over my lifetime with psoriasis I can't say I've had an easy time of it but I am mature enough now to realise and appreciate that if I hadn't been bullied at a child for my skin condition it would have been because I was smart, my social class or any number of other factors that was different. The skin was the most obvious, visual, thing about me.
When I read articles and blogs about the psychological effects of psoriasis I can't help but wonder a few things... Firstly, how long have these people had psoriasis? If not long the I can understand the anger and depression process. Secondly, how old are they? Teens and sub 50's with psoriasis seem to struggle more psychologically with psoriasis. Thirdly, what sex are they? Females are bombarded with images of the "perfect" body every day so I guess that has to play a major part in the development of low self-esteem.
Finally... And this is the biggie... Am I just a freak in that I have never been negatively impacted psychologically by having psoriasis... I never say I suffer, I live with it. I don't hide it away from anyone and wear what I like when I like... Does this relate to the length of time I have lived with psoriasis? It's been all I have ever really known.....
I often think of passing these thoughts and opinions on to the psoriasis association here in the UK but my story is not the kind of story they are looking for.
