Psoriasis Meet My Potential Partner

Introducing someone new to the version of me that sends most people running is always an experience for me. Over the last couple of years, I have grown accustomed to the fact that most people cannot handle my psoriasis. Other people choose not to get involved with someone who suffers with one and more autoimmune diseases. Particularly one that can be seen by the naked eye. Do I blame them? NO! I used to, but I no longer do. Over the years it has taught me how to truly not judge people. I have been on the receiving end of harsh judgment and I can tell you it’s really hard. Given the chance though, some people may surprise you. The kind of people I want around stick around after the great reveal.

True colors

I digress, sometimes it's meeting someone new and sometimes it is getting to know someone a little deeper than what you already do. Either way, it is nerve-wracking, you never know what to expect. Letting your guard down and your clothes down to reveal your skin and your soul is quite literally one of the most vulnerable things that you can do. The point is that psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis is not going anywhere. The sooner you show your true colors, the better.

Be straight about your diagnosis

Do not pretend that it is less than what it is, or else when the time comes and you need the person to be there for you, they will be overwhelmed by the sheer complexity of it all. It’s a lot to handle even for us who get it, most say anyway. When it’s tough, it’s really tough. Allow them to ask questions and just be honest about what it is, how it affects your life, and how it could possibly affect their life too. This does not have to happen in one sitting, these conversations can happen over time.

Should I stay or should I go?

More times than not I think you will find that most people react in a more positive way than what you expected. I have been very lucky that most people I have brought into this part of my life, and my world have accepted me and all my health baggage or they have left gracefully. The few that did not leave marks on my heart, I was able to grow from those experiences. I realized that I would never want to force anyone to accept my things. This would not be fair to either of us.

Accept their acceptance

It can be hard to accept that some people are actually just okay with it, they just want to help you and make you feel better. Learn to accept it; it is after all exactly what we want. I have been blessed when dropping my guard recently I was met with nothing but kindness, some curiosity, compassion and something just this side of love. I realize how lucky I am. I also know that the people I want in my life on an intimate level, they are the ones who stay.

“Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You.”

― Dr. Seuss