The Potential Psychological Impact of Skin Conditions

Skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and skin cancer often have a substantial psychologic and social impact on our patients. Some of these patients limit their life because they feel self-conscious about their symptoms. Sometimes, greater life satisfaction comes from accepting that perhaps some symptoms will remain or recur, even in an individual who responds well to treatment. This acceptance involves acknowledging the existence of symptoms, thereby allowing the patient to pursue a meaningful life that is not overly limited by their potential presence. This is not only liberating for the patient but also for the medical professional, who can sometimes feel pressured by patients' unrealistic expectations to achieve symptom reductions that are not possible. We discuss how to talk with patients about their expectations regarding treatment and whether relief of symptoms is a necessary component to living a better life. Helping patients to find the right words to explain their visible symptoms to others can sometimes help them feel less self-conscious in public settings and thereby more comfortable going out into the world to pursue a meaningful life.