Let's Talk Healthy Skin: The Importance of Advocacy & Sharing

Psoriasis is a chronic condition that is caused by an autoimmune response. It has nothing to do with the health of our skin, just the health of our bodies and our immune system. Psoriasis is not contagious nor caused by a lack of basic hygiene - in fact, these stigmas are hurtful and can cause significant emotional trauma.

November is National Healthy Skin Month. What does healthy skin even mean when you live with a visible skin condition like psoriasis? Throughout this month and within our "Let's Talk Healthy Skin" article series, we intend to find out.

The emotional toll of psoriasis

To raise awareness of the management of psoriasis and its daily life impact, we'll be covering a variety of topics, including managing a new diagnosis, the emotional challenges, and the true definition of what healthy skin actually means.

Our own advocates who contribute to PlaquePsoriasis.com have taken their time to share their own experiences when it comes to defining healthy skin. Advocacy and awareness are two easy things to eliminate stigma and find connections in a specialized community. We've asked Jack and Reena to share what they find most beneficial about being an advocate for psoriasis. Let's get started.

Jack Gevertz: Prior to joining Health Union, I never imagined myself as an advocate or campaigner. I knew I had this awful condition, but I never thought anything good could come from it.

Now, though, I realize that having psoriasis is not the end of the world. Yes, I’m on treatment for it, but I’ve also learned to accept that this condition is part of it. I’m not fully there yet, I still get times where the patches get me down, but I’m a lot better at coping than I was once.

Advocacy has played a role in that. I can connect with other sufferers and we can discuss treatments, how we’re dealing with it, and more, and that just completely reassures me.

Reena Ruparelia: Advocacy has put me in a place of really working on self-acceptance as well as seeking out holistic treatments to help my skin thrive.

I feel like because I am an advocate it's essential that I do take care of myself and really explore my skin journey from all angles - so I can be of better support to others.

For those unsure about community support, perhaps just come in as an observer, read articles, listen in on talks. You will be so glad you did. There is nothing like meeting someone who really gets it.

Our community is waiting for you

When you create an account on PlaquePsoriasis.com, you have an opportunity for instant connection and support - all at your own comfort level.

Feel free to bookmark articles that are most helpful for you, participate or gain insight from our forums that contain real questions asked by real people living with psoriasis, and read or share stories that detail the reality of psoriasis and its impact on daily life. Click the blue-button below to get started.

Our community is waiting for you. Get the support and validation you deserve today.