New IFPA Report Reveals Link Between Psoriatic Disease and Mental Health
PR95457
STOCKHOLM, Apr. 29, 2022, /PRNewswire=KYODO JBN/--
Psoriatic disease is an inflammatory illness that affects the skin and joints.
Itchy, flaky patches of skin are perhaps the most common symptom. But psoriatic
disease goes far deeper. For many, one of the most difficult challenges in
living with psoriatic disease is its heavy impact on mental health. Today, IFPA
– the global organization for people living with psoriatic disease – releases a
report exploring the symbiotic relationship between psoriatic disease,
depression, and anxiety.
Living with a visible illness can be devastating. "I went through a flare up at
the end of 2015," says Reena Ruparelia, from Canada. "My hands and feet were
covered in plaques and cracks. I was wearing plastic wrap and gloves to stay
moisturized. One day at work I took them off, stared at my hands and began to
have a panic attack. I couldn't believe how bad it had gotten. I took a taxi
home and I was on disability leave for three months."
Reena’s experience is not unique. In fact, latest research shows that more than
25% of people living with psoriatic disease show signs of depression, and as
many as 48% experience anxiety — more than any skin condition. Rates of
disability and suicide are also higher for people with psoriatic disease. The
psychological impact is increasingly recognized as a significant part of the
illness.
The same inflammatory mediators are involved in both psoriatic disease and
depression. As a result, people living with the condition become caught in a
vicious cycle: psoriatic disease causes depression and anxiety, and in return
depression and anxiety cause disease flares. IFPA's new report titled Inside
Psoriatic Disease: Mental Health not only explores this link, but also outlines
best practices to break the cycle.
"No one in the medical field has told me that my depression, anxiety, and
psoriasis are linked," remarks Iman in Oman. "Mental health is a complex issue
that requires cooperation among all stakeholders."
Elisa Martini, lead author of IFPA's report, emphasizes the urgency of policy
change. "The relationship between poor mental health and psoriatic disease is
undeniable and must be taken seriously. Effective treatment of psoriatic
disease, and timely psychological interventions are essential to provide proper
care. Governments must allocate more resources to mental health services. Both
physical and mental health are necessary for well-being".
IFPA's report on mental health is available online at ifpa-pso.com
[https://ifpa-pso.com/resources-tools/inside-psoriatic-disease-mentalhealth].
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Caption: Mental Health
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CONTACT: Camille Lancelot, +46-(0)73-961-1565
SOURCE: IFPA
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