Living with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis has been a journey filled with challenges, resilience, and deep self-discovery. These conditions have not only shaped my daily experiences but have also profoundly influenced my emotional and mental well-being. While I have made significant strides in managing my symptoms, the impact remains an undeniable part of my life.

The Physical Struggles: A Constant Battle

Psoriasis is often dismissed as “just a skin condition,” but for those who live with it, the reality is far more complex. The pain, itching, and inflammation can be unbearable, making even the simplest tasks feel exhausting.

During the worst flare-up I had (August to September 2022), I had literally sleepless nights because of the itchiness - 95% of my body was covered with severe psoriasis!

Psoriatic arthritis added another layer of difficulty to my journey. The stiffness, swelling, and joint pain have made certain movements almost impossible on some days. The unpredictability of these symptoms means that planning my life around them is a constant challenge.

Whenever psoriatic arthritis attacks, my every step hurts a lot and there’s extreme pain from the waist down especially at night.

The Emotional Toll: More Than Skin Deep

Beyond the physical symptoms, the emotional burden of these conditions is equally significant. There have been moments of frustration, isolation, and even grief over the life I once had before my diagnosis. The visible nature of psoriasis has made me self-conscious, and I have encountered both curiosity and ignorance from others.

It is just difficult to socialize (which I so love) because I easily get tired and uncomfortable because of itchiness and pain.

Dealing with chronic pain and fatigue has also impacted my mental health. There have been days when the weight of it all felt too heavy to bear, but I have learned to navigate through these emotions with self-care, support from loved ones, and professional guidance.

I pray a lot. Expressing myself through writing helps a lot.

Finding Strength and Embracing Resilience

Despite the hardships, my journey has also been one of growth and empowerment. I have become more in tune with my body, learned to advocate for my health, and found a community of individuals who understand my struggles. Through my writing and advocacy, I hope to raise awareness and encourage others to embrace their journey with courage.

My Skyrizi shots really helped a lot - a real game-changer! My skin cleared and itchiness decreased significantly.

Moving Forward with Hope

While these conditions remain a part of my life, they do not define me. Each day, I choose to focus on what I can control—my mindset, my lifestyle choices, and the way I respond to challenges. Through continued self-care, medical management, and emotional resilience, I am determined to live a fulfilling and meaningful life.

For anyone walking a similar path, know that you are not alone. Our struggles may be unique, but our strength is shared.

Though psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis have brought challenges, they have also taught me resilience, self-compassion, and the power of community. I’ve learned that healing is not just about managing symptoms but also about embracing life with courage and grace.

There is hope, support, and strength in sharing our stories. Together, we can navigate the ups and downs, find joy in the small victories, and continue moving forward—one step at a time.