Taking control

Psoriasis can impact on all aspects of your life. It can put you through all kinds of emotion, from embarrassment, frustration to isolation and can even disrupt your work, social life and personal relationships. It may leave you routinely stressed-out, which can sometimes make your condition worse. Your healthcare professional will be able to offer you additional support and advice to regain control over your psoriasis both emotionally and physically. Below are four key steps to help you bring all these thoughts and feelings into balance and get control back of your life.

1. Release the pressure through self-acceptance - Simply acknowledging and accepting your feelings and emotions may help you to feel less in conflict with yourself. It’s understandable to feel ups and downs.
2. Be realistic and positive - Accept that you can’t feel great every day and try to manage your lifestyle so you can manage your psoriasis. Negative thoughts may crop up from time to time, especially on low-energy days, but maintaining a positive outlook will help you stay in control.
3. Take the lead in talking about your psoriasis - This will put you in the driving seat, with a sense of control over your relationships with people, rather than waiting for them to come to you.
4. Talk about your feelings - Having a sensitive and sympathetic person to support you can make the world of difference, whether it’s a parent, sibling, friend, counsellor or healthcare professional. It’s so important for your self-confidence to have someone in your life that will listen and understand your feelings.
5. Be informed - Become the expert on your psoriasis! By learning all about the condition and the right way to describe it, you will feel more informed and confident when explaining it to others. Research the latest developments in available treatments and find out how to get the best out of them. Exploring credible patient association websites are a good way to get information and read tips on getting over the challenges of managing your psoriasis. Ask your GP or dermatologist about all the treatment options available and keep going back until you’ve found a solution that works for you and your life.

Becoming experts on their psoriasis has put many people back in control of their lives.

Don't be afraid to ask for help. Talk to a healthcare professional about your concerns and feelings and all the treatment options that may be available to you. Here “Dr Stephen Kownacki”, offers his advice on how to have your say at the consultation.