TALKING WITH FAMILY
AND FRIENDS

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For someone with psoriasis, the support of your family and friends can be priceless—having someone to share in your triumphs and milestones, and lift you up when you get down.

But some people have a hard time getting past what they see. They might not understand how you feel. That’s why helping people understand the deeper story behind psoriasis can open up the conversation and allow them to be a part of your support system and care team.

Tips for Talking

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Speak up

Sometimes the hardest part of talking about your psoriasis is just starting the conversation. You may be embarrassed, but get past the mental hurdle and it might be easier than you thought.

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Plan ahead

Winging it doesn’t always work out. Have an idea of what you want to say and how you want to say it, and it can help you from getting flustered while talking about your psoriasis.

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Be patient

Some people may feel uncomfortable asking you about your psoriasis, or just not know much about it. Help them understand and, if they still don’t get it, you can rest easy knowing you tried.

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Follow up

You live with psoriasis every day, so one conversation is rarely enough to tell the whole story. Plus, people may not know how to respond at first. Keep the dialogue going and see what blooms.

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Keep it real

Being completely upfront and open about your symptoms and their impact can help you and your dermatologist find the right treatment plan for you and ways to help manage your condition.

Intimacy and Psoriasis

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It’s not contagious.

That’s what you want to know—and it’s most likely what your partner wants to hear before getting intimate. Like any relationship, just being honest and open is usually the best way to go. It can make both of you feel more comfortable, which is never a bad thing when you’re getting close.

If you still have questions about psoriasis and intimacy, see what others have said and done in their relationships.

Find more insight and support at the psoriasisSPEAKS Community ➜