Living with a chronic condition can be stressful, particularly when it is visible, such as psoriasis. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the body, resulting in red, scaly, and itchy patches on the skin. These patches often appear in noticeable areas like the knees, elbows, and scalp. Although there is no cure for psoriasis, treatments can help prevent skin flares and alleviate associated stress.
What’s the link between stress and psoriasis?
The connection between stress and psoriasis is complex and bidirectional. Stress is a known trigger for psoriasis flares, and individuals who develop these patches may experience additional stress due to their appearance and discomfort.
Can stress actually cause psoriasis? Dr. Evan Rieder, assistant professor of Dermatology at NYU Langone Health, says, “In and of itself, stress is not something that causes psoriasis to develop out of the blue. But it could trigger a flare in someone who is already genetically predisposed to the condition.”
Researchers are still uncertain about the exact mechanism by which stress causes flares. It appears that people with psoriasis have issues with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, the system that regulates the body’s reaction to stress. These individuals tend to have lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone that normally helps control inflammation. As a result, when they are under stress, inflammation increases and psoriasis flares up.
The stress of living with psoriasis can further exacerbate this process and worsen symptoms. Psoriasis patches are itchy and cause discomfort, and the social stigma associated with these plaques can negatively impact self-esteem.
Stress Management Tips for Living with Psoriasis
One effective way to manage stress when living with psoriasis is by regularly practicing relaxation techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing. Exercise is another excellent stress reliever that also helps boost self-esteem.
Hypnosis and biofeedback are additional techniques that can help ease stress. Keep in mind that relaxation techniques need to be practiced regularly to see benefits.
Managing Your Mental Health
Self-advocacy is crucial when it comes to managing psoriasis, according to Dr. Rieder. Dermatologists may focus primarily on your skin and might not address your mental health concerns.
“People with psoriasis can experience depression and anxiety, and it doesn’t necessarily correlate with their skin condition. Their skin can look clear,” Dr. Rieder explains.
In addition to consulting your dermatologist, he recommends speaking with a therapist. “Focus on whatever is getting in the way of you living your best life,” he advises. Consider finding a therapist experienced in working with individuals with psoriasis or other chronic conditions.
Benefits of Support Groups for Psoriasis
Support groups offer a place to connect with others who have psoriasis and learn from their experiences. “I think they can be very helpful,” Dr. Rieder says. “Unless you’re living with the condition, it’s very hard to truly empathize.”
Support groups are available in various places, such as hospitals, community centers, and churches, as well as online. A good starting point for finding a support group is through organizations like the National Psoriasis Foundation.
How to Talk with Your Friends About Psoriasis
Discussing psoriasis with others, even those closest to you, can be challenging. However, initiating the conversation can enable the people who care about you to provide the support you need.
For those in your broader social circle, a simple and direct explanation is sufficient. Dr. Rieder suggests saying something like, “It’s not infectious, and you can’t get it from me.”
With close friends and family, it’s beneficial to be more open and honest. Explain what it’s like to live with this condition. Understanding your experience will enable them to be better allies.
Treatment Options for Psoriasis
Achieving clearer skin can significantly improve emotional well-being. When you’re less stressed about your skin, you may experience fewer flares.
There are numerous options for treating psoriasis. Dermatologists often begin with topical steroids, which slow cell production and reduce skin inflammation. Other nonsteroidal topical treatments include anthralin, synthetic vitamin D3, and vitamin A.
Phototherapy, which exposes your skin to UV light to slow down cell growth, is another option. This treatment can be administered either in your doctor’s office or at home.
Systemic treatments, such as methotrexate, cyclosporine, and biologics, work throughout the body to curb immune system-induced inflammation. Biologics are genetically engineered medications that target specific molecules involved in causing inflammation, helping the immune system function properly. These treatments are typically considered for severe psoriasis or cases that do not respond to topical treatments.
The key to finding the right treatment is to choose a doctor you trust. “Make sure you see a board-certified dermatologist to get the best recommendations,” advises Dr. Rieder.
The Takeaway
Stress and psoriasis are closely linked. Stress increases the likelihood of flare-ups, and living with psoriasis can, in turn, elevate stress levels.
Consulting a dermatologist and finding the right treatment plan can result in clearer skin and reduced stress. Additionally, seeing a counselor or mental health provider can help you manage the emotional challenges associated with psoriasis while your treatment takes effect.