Stress Management

If you have been diagnosed with a psoriatic disease, it doesn’t mean you aren’t healthy or able to lead an active and satisfying life.

If you have psoriasis, then you already know managing skin symptoms can be stressful. During episodes when lesions or plaques appear on the skin, people may feel self-conscious about their appearance or reluctant to participate in social activities. They may fear “shedding” on furniture, at the gym, or in someone’s car. They may struggle with the idea of being physically intimate with another person or even discussing their condition with a spouse or partner. As a result, people with psoriasis may suffer from depression.

If joint pain accompanies skin symptoms, as it does with psoriatic arthritis, then there may be additional stress and frustration, as people may have more difficulty with certain routine tasks.

Remember, you are not alone. Nearly a million Americans live, work, play, and enjoy their lives while coping with skin and joint symptoms associated with psoriatic arthritis. About 4.5 million Americans cope with skin symptoms associated with psoriasis.

Don’t give up. There are things you can do to manage stress, maintain a positive attitude, keep doing the things you enjoy, and feel good about your quality of life.

Relaxation

Regardless of whether we have health-related challenges, most times we find that each day presents its own set of obstacles. It is important to take a moment to relax. Relaxing helps reduce muscle tension. By reducing muscle tension, you can help relieve pain and keep muscles flexible and strong so they can support your joints.

Relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, guided imagery (visualization), massage therapy, or even journal writing can help you manage stress. These techniques require practice, and you might want to try a few before settling on the one or two that suit you best.

Keep it simple

If you have psoriatic arthritis, there may be times when you feel slowed down by your symptoms. Rather than seeing this as a setback, look at it as a sign that it is time to simplify your life. Take time to pamper yourself and pay more attention to the things in your life that give you pleasure.

Don’t feel pressured to say “yes” all the time. Ask yourself if you really have the time or if you have overcommitted yourself. Ask for help with household chores, and remember that this is all part of managing your condition, not giving up your responsibilities.

Take a breath, literally. When you’re stressed, your breathing is quick and shallow. Practice deep breathing while you’re sitting in traffic or waiting on the telephone. Inhale slowly to a count of four, then exhale slowly to a count of four. Do this several times a day, whenever you feel stressed.

Seek support

It is not unusual for people with psoriatic diseases to experience depression. Many people with a psoriatic disease report that symptoms affect nearly every aspect of their lives, from work to social activities to family life. It is important that they don’t continue to feel alienated and alone.

If you are feeling overwhelmed or depressed, reach out to people. Remember, you are not alone. Having a support system of friends and loved ones can help you feel more able to cope with your condition.

If you choose to join a support group, you must be comfortable and willing to discuss your feelings about your condition and be interested in learning about others. If you are not yet comfortable with such a situation, then individual counseling may be more beneficial.

Talk to your doctor about recommending a therapist. A therapist may help you find ways to discuss your condition more openly, as well as express your fears and concerns to friends, coworkers, and loved ones.

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