5 Tips For Feeling Comfortable In Your Own Skin With Psoriasis
When you live with psoriasis, you may feel embarrassed and constantly worried about your skin and what other people perceive about it. This hurts your confidence and can take a toll on your emotional well-being. When this happens, it can be difficult to get comfortable in social situations or start new relationships with such a big distraction looming over your life. We’re here to remind you that it doesn’t have to be this way. Here are 5 tips to help you get comfortable in your own skin and gain your quality of life back.
1. Get Out Of Your Own Head
Sometimes we can blow things out of proportion in our own heads. We base our actions on what we think other people will perceive them and this can hold us back. We have no control over what other people think about us and we should not assume what they are thinking. The truth is, no one else knows 100% about you and your life except for you. This type of cognitive fallacy is called the “Spotlight Effect” where people think they are being noticed more than they really are. You should try to catch yourself each time you do this and you can gradually train your mind to overcome it. Don’t let your negative thoughts keep you from being yourself!
2. Indulge In Mind And Body Treatments
Self care is self love in the form of any activity that you do for mental, physical, and emotional benefit. Self care is not selfish acts, instead they are basic activities that help you find your own rhythm and balance in life. Take relaxing baths to calm your skin and ease your joints. Sleep well by controlling the amount of light in your room, exercising during the day, and switching to comfy hypoallergenic sheets. These are all things you can do even if you are not experiencing a flare up. Good self care will help you lower anxiety and key to a good relationship with yourself. Make the most out of your treatment regimen today so you can heal well and feel good from the inside out.
3. Do Things You Love
We spend a majority of our time at work/school, taking care of others, running errands, and we forget to make time for ourselves. When you finally get that time for yourself, find an activity you love, learn a hobby you always wanted to try, or just jam out to that new album you just downloaded. Doing enjoyable things help your mind stay distracted from your skin. It is also a reminder that psoriasis is not your identity. It is your courage, the things you are good at, and so much more that defines who you are. Look for opportunities that bring you joy, make you laugh, and make you feel like you.
4. Psoriasis Is Not Contagious, But Awareness Is
Become an expert in psoriasis and use your platform to bring awareness to the disease. When you get stares, most people are more curious than judging. It might be uncomfortable to talk about your psoriasis at first, but letting people know about your condition and that it is not contagious will encourage positive discussion. You may find your support circle getting bigger.
5. Set Small Goals
Just as goal-setting is important in everyday life, setting small goals in your psoriasis journey and achieving them can help you believe in yourself and gain confidence again. If you know your diet should be better, gradually phase out the foods that cause inflammation. If you’ve been meaning to exercise more, start with a short and light workout for 5-10 minutes. If you feel embarrassed about your plaques, try to wear a t-shirt or go hat-less out for a short walk (but remember your sunscreen). Getting comfortable in your own skin will take time. Remember that even though psoriasis is a part of you, it does not define you. Regaining confidence and control over psoriasis will make a huge difference in all aspects of your life.