Social Life

Embarrassment about the appearance of psoriasis can lead to low self esteem and a reluctance to socialise, which can put a strain on relationships.

• The discomfort of psoriasis and lowered self-confidence may interfere with your sex life and affect your relationship with your partner.
• The worry about what people think and being conscious that they are focussing on your affected skin can make associations with friends and colleagues awkward.

It may help to explain the nature of your psoriasis to friends and colleagues – psoriasis is nothing to be ashamed of. Your friends and colleagues may be interested to learn that psoriasis is not contagious but rather that it is a common long-term skin condition. It is important that you do not let psoriasis affect your self-image; psoriasis does not change you, it is just a condition that you happen to have. If you stay confident and feel good about yourself, others will notice you more than they notice your skin.

Talking to your healthcare team can also help. Although there is no cure for psoriasis, there are many effective treatment options. Finding a treatment that works for you will help you feel better about yourself.

It may also be helpful to talk with other people who have psoriasis at local support groups (your healthcare team should be able to provide details). Sharing your feelings and gaining more information about psoriasis can be comforting and useful.

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