Psoriasis: When a Skin Condition Affects More Than the Skin!
The effects of psoriasis are not always limited to what can be seen on the skin. From concerns about appearance to anxiety, social withdrawal and reduced self-confidence the condition can shape many aspects of everyday life. Marking World Psoriasis Day, Sepideh KhasseTarash, psychologist at Firouzabadi Hospital, highlights the importance of recognising its psychological impact and challenging the stigma surrounding it.
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Psoriasis: When a Skin Condition Affects More Than the Skin!
For someone living with psoriasis the challenges may not end when a skin flare up settles. Visible lesions persistent itching and concerns about how others perceive their appearance can affect confidence relationships and participation in everyday activities.These less visible consequences are an important part of the experience of psoriasis, yet they are often overlooked.Observed annually on 29 October, World Psoriasis Day offers an opportunity to look beyond the physical symptoms and consider how the condition affects people's lives as a whole.Understanding psoriasis.
Psoriasis is a chronic non contagious inflammatory condition associated with an abnormal immune response. It causes the skin to renew itself more rapidly than usual, resulting in raised inflamed patches that may be covered with silvery scales. Itching and discomfort can also occur.The condition often follows a fluctuating course with periods of improvement followed by flare ups. Although its most recognisable signs appear on the skin psoriasis can have implications for wider health and quality of life.
The relationship between stress and psoriasis
The relationship between psoriasis and psychological stress is not straightforward. Stress does not cause psoriasis but it may contribute to flare ups or make existing symptoms more difficult to manage in some people.There can also be an emotional dimension to the condition itself. Visible skin changes concerns about unwanted attention and uncertainty about other people's reactions may become sources of ongoing stress. In some cases, this creates a cycle in which psychological distress and physical symptoms reinforce one another.This does not mean that people are responsible for their symptoms or that managing stress alone can control the disease. Rather it highlights why psychological wellbeing deserves attention alongside medical treatment.
When visible symptoms have invisible consequences
According to Sepideh KhasseTarash, psychologist at Firouzabadi Hospital, people living with psoriasis may face a range of psychological challenges including:
• Reduced self esteem and difficulties with body image.
• Anxiety about being judged or misunderstood by others.
• A greater likelihood of experiencing depressive symptoms.
• Sleep disturbances and a decline in overall quality of life.
Importantly the psychological burden does not necessarily reflect the extent of skin involvement. Even a small number of lesions particularly in areas that are difficult to conceal may have a considerable emotional impact.
Supporting psychological wellbeing
Managing psoriasis involves more than treating its physical manifestations. Alongside medical care addressing emotional and social challenges can help people live more comfortably with the condition. Several approaches may be helpful:Recognise and manage stress: Breathing techniques, mindfulness and regular physical activity suited to individual circumstances can help reduce everyday tension.Develop a healthier relationship with body image: Skin changes do not define a person's identity or determine their worth. Recognising this distinction can help protect self esteem.Stay connected: Withdrawing from social activities because of concerns about appearance can increase feelings of isolation. Maintaining supportive relationships and speaking openly with trusted people can make a difference.Consider professional psychological support: When psoriasis affects mood & relationships or daily functioning and speaking with a psychologist may be beneficial. Approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can help people manage distress and develop more effective coping strategies.World Psoriasis Day 2026: 'Look Beyond My Skin'.
This year's World Psoriasis Day theme 'Look Beyond My Skin', draws attention to an aspect of the condition that is easily missed: the person behind the visible symptoms.The campaign places particular emphasis on teenagers and young adults living with psoriasis for whom concerns about appearance and acceptance and belonging can be especially challenging during formative years.Greater public awareness of the fact that psoriasis is not contagious together with more thoughtful attitudes towards visible skin differences can help reduce misconceptions and the stigma experienced by those affected.Ultimately, psoriasis should not be understood solely through the patches it leaves on the skin. Its effects may reach into a person's confidence - relationships and emotional wellbeing. Recognising these dimensions is essential to providing care that addresses not only the condition but also the person living with it.
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