More than Fine: The emotional toll of living with Eczema
Living with eczema or navigating topical steroid withdrawal (TSW) is more than a skin-deep struggle. The relentless itch, visible flare-ups, and discomfort can significantly impact mental health. Studies indicate that up to 50% of adults with eczema experience anxiety or depression, a rate nearly double that of the general population.
The Emotional Toll of Eczema
Eczema's impact isn't limited to physical symptoms. The chronic nature of the skin condition can lead to sleep disturbances, social withdrawal, and diminished self-esteem. A survey by the National Eczema Association found that 72% of individuals with eczema reported poor mental health symptoms for 1–10 days in the past month, with 17% experiencing such symptoms for more than 11 days.
The unpredictability of flare-ups can make individuals feel isolated and misunderstood, especially when others perceive eczema as merely a skin issue. This misunderstanding can lead to feelings of frustration and loneliness.
The Power of Community and Open Dialogue
Building a support network is crucial. Engaging with others who understand the challenges of eczema can provide comfort and practical advice. Support groups, whether in-person or online, offer spaces to share experiences and coping strategies. Such communities like 'Eczemates' or 'Itch and Bitch' by Elizabeth Mackie, a community of 13K+, meet regularly to connect as well as support each other in alleviating feelings of isolation and loneliness in dealing with symptoms. For more groups, in the UK, The National Eczema Society and Eczema Outreach Support are great platforms which have lists of groups who promote emotional well-being.
It's also essential to communicate openly with friends, family, and reliable healthcare providers. Expressing your feelings and challenges can foster understanding and support. Remember, acknowledging your struggles doesn't signify weakness; it reflects strength and self-awareness.
Embracing Self-Care Practices
Incorporating self-care routines can significantly benefit mental health.
- Journaling: Observing and writing down your daily experiences can help identify triggers and patterns, providing insights into managing flare-ups.
- Meditation and Mindfulness: Practices like deep breathing and meditation can reduce stress, a very well-known known trigger for eczema.
- Seeking Professional Help: Therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) have proven effective in managing anxiety and depression associated with chronic conditions like eczema.
Our founders story
Being a card-carrying member of the eczema community for over 30 years has meant that I've dealt with my fair-share of mental health struggles in living with the condition. From stares in Primary school and bullying about my eczma "being contagious" from parents and kids alike, to frequent GP visits where I was fobbed off with bags of steroid creams, trust me - I've gone through it all! Let's not forget the quick dashes to the bathroom to itch, hiding on holiday underneath swathes of clothing, issues with intimacy and all the mental health bouts that had me suppressing and denying the pain I was living in.
Taking my mental health seriously and the ways it was affecting my relationships, both with myself and others, has been, and still is a journey. When my skin flares, its so easy to bunker down at home, hide from the outside world and sit in the company of my inner-critic analysing every single thing I might have done in the previous weeks to cause it. But by educating those around me on how I like to be supported, and creating an active community, I've been able to see the difference when those moments occur. Though I no longer have eczema to the extreme levels I did previously or experience such bad flare-ups, the memories of when I did still live with me. So by working with a therapist, journaling and actively seeking support, I'm more well-equipped now than I have ever been historically to deal with the trauma of low self-esteem and sadness of yesteryear.
Moving Beyond "I'm Fine"
It's common to downplay one's struggles, responding with "I'm fine" when asked about your well-being. However, embracing vulnerability and seeking support can lead to genuine healing. By acknowledging challenges, you can open the door to resources and communities that can help you thrive especially during the dark times.
Remember, you're not alone in this journey. By connecting with others, practicing self-care, and seeking support, you can navigate the complexities of eczema and TSW with resilience and hope.
If you or someone you know is struggling with eczema-related mental health issues, consider reaching out to organizations like the National Eczema Association or consulting with a healthcare professional for guidance and support.
