INFOGRAPHICPSORIASIS

How Psoriasis Affects Mental Health, According to Our Members

February 02, 2024
How Psoriasis Affects Mental Health According to Our Members The mind-body connection is strong. 246 Kopa members living with psoriasis and/or psoriatic arthritis recently answered a survey about their mental health. Here’s what they candidly shared about their experiences. Mental Health Concerns 35% percent of people who responded reported significant symptoms of depression. These people said they had little interest or pleasure in doing things and were feeling down, depressed, or hopeless more than half the days in the previous two weeks. 40% reported significant symptoms of anxiety. They said they felt nervous, anxious, on edge, and/or weren’t able to stop or control their worrying more than half the days in the previous two weeks. 27% experienced both depression and anxiety Day-to-Day Impact 65% said they felt their mental health interferes with their personal relationships and social activities. Common reasons: • Isolating from others • Feeling self-conscious • Feeling withdrawn • Overthinking and anxious thoughts “I don't want to interact with people, or sometimes even get out of bed because it seems like a mountain is in front of you without any of the right equipment.” “If I'm feeling down, I don't want to be around people. I find it too exhausting.” “My depression comes out in the form of anger. As in beingi on edge, snappy, not liking or caring for much of life’s daily routines. It affects the people around me—it’s not pleasant to be around a negative, angry person!” Psoriasis Affects Mental Health 68% of people who responded said their psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis impacted their mental health “somewhat” or “very much.” Many said this was due to: • Physical discomfort “The pain from psoriatic arthritis plays a huge role in my daily activities or lack thereof.” • Self-consciousness and embarrassment “I’m always watching to see if anyone is looking at my skin. I don’t wear shorts or short-sleeve shirts anymore because I’m embarrassed by my skin.” • Low self-esteem “Since I don’t have clear skin, I feel that to most people, I don’t really matter, nor am I good enough.” What to Do Talk to your doctor about how your psoriasis may be affecting your mental health. See a mental health professional if you find yourself: • Not enjoying activities that usually bring you joy • Feeling down, depressed, or hopeless • Feeling nervous, anxious, or edgy • Having trouble controlling your worry Join a support group or use the Kopa app to talk with other people experiencing similar struggles as you. While these feelings can seem overwhelming, you’re not alone. And there’s help available.