Work considerations

Communication is key

It may not be easy talking to your boss or coworkers about psoriasis, especially if they're not familiar with the condition. A discussion about your psoriasis is a highly personal one and addressing your situation directly can help you take charge of it. When you educate those around you about psoriasis, you may create an opportunity to:

• Correct misconceptions
• Gain support from your colleagues
• Transform your workplace into a more open environment for everyone

Tips for talking to coworkers

Don't put it off—The sooner your coworkers understand that you have psoriasis, the less misinformation you'll have to correct. Most likely, they'll appreciate your candor — and your courage. For example, you may say something like this: "I don't want you to be distracted by what you see on my hands (or face, etc.). So let me put everyone's mind at ease. I have psoriasis. It's not contagious; it's not infectious, but it can be itchy and annoying."

Others will take their cue from you—Most people will be eager for you to feel comfortable, just as you would be if the situation was reversed. The more you can communicate that you're at ease with psoriasis, the more at ease others will be.

Be upbeat and casual; take the lead—Let coworkers know right away that psoriasis isn't contagious and that it won't keep you from doing your job. If your skin flares up at times, let them know what that's like for you. Make it clear that psoriasis is just something you live with, that you pull your own weight, and that they can depend on you.

Prioritize your work when flare-ups occur—Concentrate on your most important tasks when you have the most energy. Overdoing things may trigger exhaustion and stress, which may make a flare-up even worse.

Stay positive—Don't let negative thoughts take over when you're having a low-energy day or feeling down. Try to stay in control of how you relate to the disease.

Be informed—Check out our Resource Library, so you're familiar with the latest developments in psoriasis treatment and care, and so you're able to answer any questions that may come up. For coworkers who have further questions, consider sharing an article or the address of a website that you've found helpful. Encourage them to explore the section in this website about relating to someone with psoriasis.

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If you choose not to talk about psoriasis at work

Depending on your work setting and the extent of visible plaques you have, you may prefer not to talk about it. And it's your right to make that choice. But, for some, the stress of keeping psoriasis a secret may actually make the condition worse.