Living with psoriasis Psoriasis and your emotions When people are diagnosed with psoriasis, it changes them physically because of the lesions that appear on the skin. But, just as importantly, it may also affect how they react emotionally. Now that their skin looks different, it may influence how they work, play, view themselves and interact with others. This section talks about the emotional aspects of living with psoriasis. Learning to recognize and manage your personal feelings about having psoriasis is as important as learning to treat the physical symptoms.

Stress and depression Stress is a known trigger for psoriasis, and the cycle of depression, stress and illness is all too common. Stress and other psoriasis triggers Illness, stress and depression Recognizing your emotions Dealing with the public's reaction	Making a positive change There are active steps you can take if your disease is taking a toll on your emotional well-being. Ways to make a positive change Mind and body therapies
Personal accounts Insight into how other people feel about psoriasis. Wind on my legs: A story from a longtime Foundation volunteer and staff member I decided to live with it: Choosing not to treat My Story: More personal accounts	You are not alone Others who know how you feel can offer support. Affiliated support groups Message board Events calendar Contact a Psoriasis Foundation health educator