If you're interested in joining a psoriasis support group, look for one that welcomes new members and makes you feel comfortable sharing.
Psoriasis support groups provide a great opportunity to exchange ideas and feelings with people who know what you're going through.
At their best, support groups provide a sense of belonging where you can make new friends and learn new ways of coping with psoriasis. At their worst, support groups become a spiral of negativity or a competitive comparison of whose condition is worse.
If you're interested in joining a support group for people with psoriasis, here are some signs that a group is more likely to be helpful:
- The group welcomes new members. Ideally, when you first join a support group you'll feel welcomed and be invited to join in.
- The discussion is positive. The group is encouraging and focuses on the positive. Everyone has bad days and members can share that too. But the responses focus on finding solutions.
- A moderator is in charge. Someone is in charge of keeping the group on topic. A moderator can help set the tone, which limits unhelpful behavior and comments.
- You feel comfortable sharing. You'll get the most from a support group if you feel comfortable sharing your own experiences. If you don't feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings, this may be a sign that the group isn't the right one for you.
- The format works for you. Find a group that works best for your schedule. If the group meets in person, make sure you'll be able to attend regularly so that you can get to know the other members better. An online support group allows you to join when it's best for you. But the anonymity of an online group might create more opportunity for disruption and inappropriate behavior.
If you're interested in joining a psoriasis support group, ask at your health care provider's office about groups in your area. If you're interested in connecting with others online, the National Psoriasis Foundation sponsors an online support community for people with psoriasis.
Show References
- Tips to manage anxiety and stress. Anxiety and Depression Association of America. https://www.adaa.org/tips-manage-anxiety-and-stress. Accessed Dec. 5, 2022.
- Elmets CA, et al. Joint AAD-NPF guidelines of care for the management and treatment of psoriasis with awareness and attention to comorbidities. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 2019; doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2018.11.058.
- Life with psoriasis. National Psoriasis Foundation. https://www.psoriasis.org/life-with-psoriasis/. Accessed Dec. 1, 2022.
- Hughes S, et al. The experience of facilitators and participants of long term condition self-management group programmes: A qualitative synthesis. Patient Education and Counseling. 2017; doi:10.1016/j.pec.2017.06.035.
- Support and community. National Psoriasis Foundation. https://www.psoriasis.org/support-and-community/. Accessed Dec. 5, 2022.
Original article: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/in-depth/5-signs-a-psoriasis-support-group-is-right-for-you/art-20475520