If I’ve just been diagnosed with Psoriasis, what should I know?

January 8, 2025

A diagnosis of psoriasis can be a challenging moment. This is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects your skin as well as your emotional, mental and social well being. It may seem daunting at first, but learning about psoriasis and embracing a holistic approach can help you lead a full, and even vibrant life with psoriasis.

Do you or someone you know have Psoriasis? Our skin is our largest organ and a reflection of our internal health. Watch our insightful video to learn “What Are The Main Causes Of Psoriasis?“.

Understanding Psoriasis

Psoriasis causes the immune system to attack healthy skin cells, making skin regenerate faster than normal. It results in scales and inflamed, red patches. Psoriasis often arises in the form of these plaques on elbows, knees, scalp and lower back, but it can crop up anywhere on the body. Psoriasis isn’t contagious; you can’t catch it or pass it on to other people.

Psoriasis comes in several forms, including:

Plaque Psoriasis

Most common type, with raised, red patches and silvery scales.

Guttate Psoriasis

The sores are often caused by infections and are small and drop-shaped.

Inverse Psoriasis

It can appear in skin folds, for example under breasts or around the groyne.

Pustular Psoriasis

It causes white pustules surrounded by inflamed skin.

Erythrodermic Psoriasis

It is a severe, rare form that occurs with widespread redness, scaling and discomfort.

Triggers and Risk Factors

Genetic predisposition plays a role in psoriasis, but environmental and lifestyle factors can set off or worsen flare-ups. Stress, infection, skin injuries, some medications and lifestyle habits such as smoking, or excessive alcohol use are common triggers. Living with psoriasis means identifying and managing these triggers.

Adopting a Holistic Health Approach

Holistic health is an approach to wellness that deals with the physical, emotional, mental, social and spiritual interrelatedness in integrative health. The holistic treatment of psoriasis will not only deal with skin symptoms but also provide you with overall health and balance.

Nutrition and Psoriasis

Managing psoriasis depends significantly on what you eat. While there is no specific “psoriasis diet,” certain dietary habits can reduce inflammation and improve skin health:

Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Add in foods with omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds. Along with this, fresh produce, especially leafy greens, blueberries and sweet potatoes are also good.

Avoid Triggers

Sugary snacks, processed foods and alcohol can promote inflammation. Some people get flare ups from dairy and gluten.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration is of course important for general skin health and also for the rest of the body’s bodily functions.

Take Supplements

Psoriasis may be managed by vitamin D, probiotics and zinc supplements, though you should consult your healthcare provider before starting any of these supplements.

Stress Management

When you are stressed, often your psoriasis flares up. Incorporating stress-reducing practices into your daily routine can make a significant difference:

Mindfulness and Meditation

Deep breathing, guided meditation, yoga help us relax and be emotionally balanced.

Physical Activity

Regular exercise helps to reduce stress and supports a healthy immune system. We recommend swimming or walking to reduce skin irritation.

Creative Outlets

Do things that make you happy, like painting, music or journaling.

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Natural and Holistic Skin Care

Caring for your skin gently and effectively is a cornerstone of psoriasis management:

Moisturization

Use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturisers to help keep your skin hydrated.

Bathing Practices

Do not use harsh soaps and use lukewarm water. On irritated skin, you can add oatmeal or Dead Sea salts to your bath.

Topical Treatments

Aloe vera, coconut oil, and turmeric paste may be enough for mild symptoms. Before using any new product, you should always patch test.

Building Emotional Resilience

Mental health can in fact be affected by psoriasis as anxiety, depression and low self esteem can manifest. Addressing these aspects is essential:

Therapy and Counseling

You might find that speaking to a counsellor can help you process emotions and to develop coping strategies.

Support Groups

A psoriasis support group allows you to share experiences and get encouragement from others who have the same psoriasis problems.

Self-Compassion

Be nice to yourself and think about your strengths and the accomplishments that you have achieved, rather than the visible symptoms of psoriasis.

Exploring Complementary Therapies

You may consider complementary therapies to enhance your holistic health journey:

Acupuncture

Those who practise this may find it helps relieve stress and ease symptoms.

Herbal Remedies

Chamomile tea, green tea, and herbal teas have anti-inflammatory properties. Herbal treatments should always be used with the advice of your healthcare provider.

Light Therapy

Psoriasis symptoms can be improved by exposure to natural sunlight or medically supervised phototherapy. Take care to not overexpose yourself and get burnt.

Spiritual and Social Connections

A sense of belonging and purpose can profoundly affect your overall well-being:

Spiritual Practices

Meditation in nature and prayer is a good way to connect yourself with the world around you.

Community Engagement

Forming strong bonds with friends, family, or community groups is a great way to get that rich emotional support.

Working with Healthcare Professionals

Holistic health is when natural and integrative practices are emphasised, while medical care is still needed. Regular check-ins with your healthcare provider helps monitor your condition and adjusts treatments as needed. The best results are found when combining holistic strategies such as diet, exercise, lifestyle, and mindset.

Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider

What type of psoriasis do I have?
What should I avoid as a trigger?
Is there anything I can do in my lifestyle to compliment the treatment I’m on?
Can I safely use natural remedies in my routine?

Petrina answers the question “How Can I Manage Psoriasis?“.

Conclusion

Psoriasis can be a challenge to live with — until you develop an active, holistic approach. Instead of worrying about things you can’t change, concentrate on what you can, and celebrate small victories along the way. The more you take care of your body, mind, and spirit, the more you’ll find the resilience and strength to live life fully, no matter what.

Remember psoriasis is just one part of who you are, don’t let psoriasis take up too much space in your life. Enjoy the road to holistic health and travel on it to a life of a balanced, empowered and fulfilling existence.

What if we told you that you can heal and even reverse your Psoriasis without having to depend on conventional medication? Start your Psoriasis journey with confidence, using our resources that are meant to guide and encourage you. Start by downloading our FREE Psoriasis guide booklet, containing all relevant information and helpful tips. For those interested in gaining further knowledge and learning more about comprehensive approaches, enrol in our special Psoriasis course. Furthermore, you can book a free consultation from our wellness clinic to get professional help that will be aimed at meeting your needs. Do not let Psoriasis be a hindrance – begin your path to improved skin health right away!

To learn more about Psoriasis, check out our other related blogs:

How is Psoriasis diagnosed?

Can Psoriasis Affect Other Parts Of The Body Beside The Skin?

Are any other conditions linked to Psoriasis?

Is It Possible For My Children To Inherit My Psoriasis?

What Is The Link Between Psoriatic Arthritis And Plaque Psoriasis?

Are there different types of Psoriasis?