A diagnosis of psoriasis may change how people view themselves and perceive others. It may have a detrimental emotional impact and make people feel confused, overwhelmed, displaced, isolated, misunderstood, fearful of the future, controlled by psoriasis, and challenged by everyday life.
Some tips to take an active role in your psoriasis management by the Canadian Association of Psoriasis Patients include:
- Consider joining support groups, including online or in person support groups.
- Prepare your family and friends by establishing good communication and boundaries.
- Asking your family and friends to learn more about psoriasis.
- Letting your support team know how you are feeling and being clear about your needs.
- Consider greatly reducing your intake of alcohol or even cutting it out altogether.
- Eat a well-balanced diet.
- If you are overweight, losing weight can reduce joint stress on your knees. Losing weight can also help reduce folds of skin on your body where psoriasis can appear. Please talk to your doctor, a registered dietitian, and/or a kinesiologist to discuss safe weight loss practices
- Consider quitting smoking.
- Protect your skin by using gentle products, keeping your skin moisturised, and keeping up with your medications.
The Canadian Association of Psoriasis Patients has developed an excellent resource and guide to living well after receiving a diagnosis of psoriasis titled Living with Psoriasis. For more strategies for coping and support, Living with Psoriasis can be found at: https://www.canadianpsoriasis.ca/index.php/en/psoriasis/living-with-psoriasis
