Daily Life

Although psoriasis is a skin condition, it can also have far-reaching effects on your emotional, psychological and social well-being.

Psoriasis causes physical discomfort but the appearance of psoriasis can also be a source of embarrassment to you and may stir up negative reactions from others. These factors together can result in some people with psoriasis having low self-esteem.

It can be a challenging experience for those involved in caring for someone with psoriasis, and for those providing support on a day-to-day basis. Family and friends may be affected if someone close to them no longer feels comfortable to attend social events. Close family may also be anxious about the long term impact of the condition and what they can do to help.

This section of the website is intended to provide practical advice on living with psoriasis in your daily life.

Further reading

Esposito M, Saraceno R, Giunta A, et al. An Italian study on psoriasis and depression. Dermatology 2006;212:123–7

Krueger G, Koo J, Lebwohl M, et al. The impact of psoriasis on quality of life: results of a 1998 National Psoriasis Foundation patient-membership survey. Arch Dermatol 2001;137:280–4

Magin P, Adams J, Heading G, et al. The psychological sequelae of psoriasis: results of a qualitative study. Psychol Health Med 2009;14:150–61

Eghlileb AM, Davies EE, Finlay AY. Psoriasis has a major secondary impact on the lives of family members and partners.Br J Dermatol 2007;156:1245–50