7 Ways to Overcome Psoriasis Frustration

Medically Reviewed By William C. Lloyd III, MD, FACS

Written By Evelyn Creekmore on October 13, 2022

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  Coping with Psoriasis and Emotions

  The plaques and scales that the chronic skin condition psoriasis causes can hamper people physically, socially, psychologically and emotionally. The overall impact on quality of life can be intense, especially if psoriasis patches are in hard-to-treat areas. These include the scalp, face, nails, hands, feet and genitals. It’s normal to experience a range of emotions when you’re living with psoriasis, from embarrassment and anxiety to anger and depression. Get tips for managing emotions and feeling better about yourself.
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  1. Reduce your stress.

  Research has shown that stress makes psoriasis symptoms worse and reduces quality of life for many people living with psoriasis. You’re more likely to have a stress connection if you’re a woman rather than a man, have a family history of psoriasis, or have severe psoriasis. Look for ways to bust the stress in your life. Consider trying relaxation techniques like meditation, guided imagery, yoga, and tai chi.
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  2. Get enough sleep.

  Is it hard for you to fall asleep? Do you wake up and not feel rested? Many people living with psoriasis have poor quality sleep, and the condition increases your risk of developing sleep disorders. These include obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which stops breathing during sleep, and restless leg syndrome (RLS), which compels people to move their legs. Sleep problems worsen psoriasis symptoms, increase stress, and make it harder to cope. Ask your doctor about talking with a sleep specialist.
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  3. Address your diet.

  Doctors typically encourage people with psoriasis to adopt an “anti-inflammatory” diet heavy in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains–and light on processed foods, saturated fats, and refined carbohydrates. This is generally good advice for anyone who wants to be healthier and feel better. For those with psoriasis, it’s worth exploring the intersection of food, symptoms and mood with a registered dietitian.
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  4. Work in some exercise.

  Exercise is a great way to lower your stress level, reduce anxiety and depression, and maintain a healthy weight. Psoriasis symptoms tend to be worse for people who are obese than for those who have a body mass index, or BMI, in the normal range. Talk to your doctor before you begin an exercise program and discontinue any exercise you find painful. Your doctor can adjust your program so you get the mental, emotional and physical benefits without hurting yourself.
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  5. Find a quality counselor.

  When you’re living with psoriasis, it’s important to ask for help managing your chronic condition. Counseling comes in many forms such as talking with your doctor, receiving patient education, and seeing a mental health specialist. Talk with your doctor about the best ways to incorporate counseling into your treatment plan. Everyone with psoriasis is different, and your counseling should be personalized based on your psoriasis symptoms, emotional reactions, overall health, and other medical conditions.
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  6. Join a community.

  What if you could talk with other people who really get how psoriasis makes you feel, without fear or judgment? You can—online and off. Ask your doctor to recommend a psoriasis community grounded in encouragement, positive thinking, and sharing legitimate information. Many people living with psoriasis also benefit from joining an organization such as the National Psoriasis Foundation, which keeps them up to date on psoriasis research and news and provides ongoing resources, tips, and tools.
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  7. Surround yourself with support.

  Living with psoriasis can be lonely. Take a moment to look around. Support is not only available from medical professionals and others living with psoriasis, but also from friends and family members. Don’t be afraid to ask for it. Studies have shown talking about psoriasis with people you trust and teaching others it’s not contagious improves depression and enhances quality of life. Some experts believe interacting proactively helps because it puts you in control—not your psoriasis.

Overcoming Psoriasis Frustration | Psoriasis Management

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