Getting Involved in Your Local Psoriasis Community

It never ceases to amaze me that somehow in today’s day and age there are still people that do not know what psoriasis is. For us, it is such a large part of our everyday that the thought of someone not knowing what it is seems impossible.  Even worse, they do not know that it is not contagious. I strongly believe by advocating and educating we can change the view on this. We can help people understand what we go through on a daily basis bringing more compassion, medical support, and understanding.  Most importantly for those who suffer from psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis we can take their hand and make the world a little less lonely.

Getting involved in your local community

See if you can find out if there are support groups or meetings in your area. Get in touch with them and ask how you can get involved. Maybe you could just join them, or be part of the conversations they have. Sharing experiences consequently helps grow the members. If you have spare time there may be fundraising or admin assistance that they need help with.  I have recently taken over the admin role of our local psoriasis group, it is really small but I am enjoying being an integral part of this community. Also, do not underestimate the power of social media - share posts and comment. If your local support groups have events where you could meet and mingle, have a coffee and a chinwag (have a chat), you should go. My opinion is that it would be a great way to interact with people who you know hold zero judgment. Consequently, they know for sure and understand what you are going through.

Supporting your local community by being there

We have a monthly meeting and I will soon be attending my first one. I am a little nervous but also excited even though I have no idea of what to expect. No doubt I will be meeting some great people. Not all of us are good at being between people, and that is okay too. Find out if there are maybe some admin tasks that you could help out with if you have ideas for awareness campaigns bring them to the table too. Never feel that what you have to offer is not of importance, I can almost guarantee you, and your help and ideas will be welcomed. Attend events, if there are fundraisers, and awareness campaigns, rope your friends into joining you. Share it on social media and be there.

Start small if you have fears or apprehensions

It can sometimes be hard for us to be social and being out in public can exacerbate this feeling. Find something that you are comfortable doing while going about making a difference. Start slowly and you will soon see that spending time with people who are truly fighting the same fight as you, will help you and them. Feeling good is contagious.

“In a world where you can be anything, be kind.” – Unknown