Community Conversations: How Do You Practice Self-Care?

Members from the Bezzy Psoriasis community share their best self-care strategies and coping techniques.

When you live with a chronic condition like psoriasis, self-care is just as important to your health as your medications and treatment plan. But life is busy, and you may not have time to prioritize self-care as much as you should.

Practicing self-care can help you prevent stress-related flares, relieve symptoms, and boost your mood and mental health.

Self-care comes in many forms. From meditating to taking walks to finding new hobbies, the options are endless.

The Bezzy Psoriasis community understands just how important self-care can be for managing psoriasis symptoms. Here are a few ways members take time for themselves.

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Connect with friends

“As I’ve got older, I found that just calling up a good friend can help me feel better.

I like talking a lot, so I will talk to a friend who likes to chat, too. I can be on a call for a couple of hours and feel myself calming down. Nothing else matters in the world except that conversation.” — Diane Talbert

Listen to what your body needs

“I once heard that it is common to believe that our body has betrayed us, but it’s more helpful to view it as our body asking for attention. I have taken this to heart and more seriously listen to my body, putting my health first over the other things I once thought were so important.” — Anonymous

Make time for the little things

“For me, it’s considering my mental and emotional health in addition to caring for my physical symptoms. Self-care is really important in alleviating stress, which is my biggest flare trigger.

Every day I try to do something small that makes me happy, like texting and checking in with friends or listening to a favorite playlist. I’ve also introduced my daughters to the show “Full House,” and I’m really enjoying watching old episodes with them.

Small things that make me stop thinking about everything else going on that’s stressing me out.” — Joni Kazantzis, Bezzy Psoriasis community guide

Consider your mind, body, and soul

“For me, self-care is giving myself what I need — and considering all parts of me — mind/body/soul. For my psoriasis, my favorite self-care rituals are indulging in sleep and getting my water in.

Another thing is that I always take time to do is moisturize my skin at night before bed, which feels so nice.” — Reena

Do arts and crafts

“I manage it by doing art, or I like to paint Band-Aids to cover my psoriasis. It’s so relaxing! My daughter and I both paint on Band-Aids to help us feel better about our spots.” — Gabriella

The takeaway

Taking care of yourself — physically, mentally, and emotionally — is crucial, especially when you live with a chronic condition like psoriasis. The best self-care technique is one that brings you joy and moments of calm.

If you want to learn more about psoriasis management and self-care, check out the Mental and Emotional Health Forum at Bezzy Psoriasis. You’re not on this journey alone.