For many who live with the chronic skin condition psoriasis, stress can cause psoriasis symptoms. Stress is thought to lead to inflammation in the body. And psoriasis itself is an inflammatory response. Fortunately, studies show that controlling stress can improve psoriasis symptoms.

Managing your stress is an important part of managing your psoriasis. Try these strategies:

• Get moving. Physical activity helps boost the production of your brain's feel-good chemicals called endorphins. Activity can help you relieve stress, increase your self-confidence, and reduce symptoms related to mild depression and anxiety. Exercise also can improve your sleep, which is often disrupted by stress, depression and anxiety.
• Meditate. A daily meditation practice can give you a sense of calm, peace and balance. It can help your emotional well-being and your overall health. Meditation might help to reduce your body's immune response to stress and minimize inflammation. It also helps you let go of negative emotions and focus on the present moment. Try visualizing mental images of places or situations you find relaxing. This method, called guided meditation, may help you feel more relaxed.
• Practice deep breathing. This relaxation technique involves spending a few minutes each day focusing on breathing slowly and deeply. Sit comfortably and focus just on your breathing. Relaxation techniques are a great way to reduce stress.
• Practice acceptance. You can't always control your psoriasis. It may help to admit that and focus on what you can control: Getting treated, avoiding things that cause unwanted stress and thinking about the good things in your life.
• Talk it out. Often, it helps to talk with someone about what's bothering you. Consider joining a support group for people with psoriasis. Or talk with a friend, mental health provider, spiritual leader or family member.

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Feb. 15, 2023 See more In-depth