PSORIASIS is a long-term (chronic) skin disease without a cure. It causes red, itchy scaly patches, most commonly on the knees, elbows, trunk, and scalp. It tends to go through cycles, flaring for a few weeks or months, then subsiding for a while or going into remission. It is an annoying skin disease that not only affects the patients but also their loved ones. In short, it is both physically and mentally tiring.
Although your loved ones will appreciate any effort you make, here are some specific ways to help those living with psoriasis.
Learn about the disease
Psoriasis is often misunderstood. If you don’t know and understand the disease don’t make accurate, unnecessary and assumptions. Misguided advice and insensitive remarks are frustrating for those living with psoriasis and can make them feel worse about their condition. Maybe you think psoriasis is contagious, so you keep your distance to avoid contracting the illness. Make a point to do some research about the disease and you will learn that this is an autoimmune disease that can’t be passed from person to person.
The more you understand, the easier it will be to offer practical assistance and help sufferers cope with flare-ups. People living with psoriasis need a strong support network. They may not want to discuss their disease but may welcome your questions when asked in an appropriate setting. Still, don’t bombard them with questions. It’s your responsibility to do your research.
Don’t stare at their skin
Psoriasis flare-ups vary from person to person, and the severity of the disease can range from mild to severe. Some people living with psoriasis only develop symptoms in areas of the body easily hidden from sight. Therefore, the disease may not have an overt social or emotional impact on them. Others have a more severe case, and psoriasis may cover a greater portion of their body.
To support someone living with this disease, make a conscious effort not to stare at their skin. The more you do, the more distressing the disease becomes for them, especially if they’re already self-conscious. Put yourself in their shoes. How would you feel if all eyes were on your skin during a flare-up?
Get medically involved
Getting medically involved also includes offering to accompany them on doctor appointments. Your attendance can be a source of emotional support, plus it’s an opportunity for you to learn about psoriasis treatments, side effects, and possible complications.
Reduce stressors
Do they seem overwhelmed or on the verge of burnout? If so, offer a helping hand and let them relax and clear their mind. This can decrease their stress level and prevent or shorten the duration of a flare-up. Think of other ways to provide practical assistance.
Listen to their concerns.
Even though you want to offer support, you may be uncomfortable bringing up the topic of psoriasis, especially if you don’t know how they’ll respond. This is perfectly normal. There are hundreds of other topics you can talk about, and psoriasis doesn’t have to be one.
If you don’t know what to say, or if you fear saying the wrong thing, talk about something else. If they bring up the disease, then provide a listening ear. Even if you can’t give advice, they’ll often appreciate patient listening as much as anything else. Sometimes people with psoriasis just need to talk. With that said, you might suggest attending a local support group with them as well.
In conclusion, there’s no cure for psoriasis. It is a lifelong condition that could be flare up anytime throughout their life. An unpredictable and frustrating disease that could affect the patient both mentally and physically. So emotional support and kind words can make psoriasis patient life easier to cope with.
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Cheryl M. Luis is the wife of George N. True II. Like her husband, she advocates health and lifestyle writing and vows to continue “Health Frontiers” as her husband’s legacy./PN
