Eczema: It’s More than Skin Deep

Articles

By National Eczema Association

Published On: Oct 1, 2017

Last Updated On: Oct 1, 2017

How do you feel?

When a loved one or even your doctor asks how you feel, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? We’re so focused on the pain, itch and other physical aspects of eczema that we rarely take the time to think about our mental health.

Truth be told, how we feel on the inside tends to mirror how we feel on the outside: lousy!

Some of us might be ashamed, embarrassed or self-conscious by the appearance of our skin. We worry about triggers and treatments, thinking, “What caused the outbreak this time?” or “Will this product actually help?”

Parents of children with eczema can attest that this disease will take its toll on the entire family, not just the patient.

There is scientific evidence showing that people with eczema have a higher risk for depression, anxiety and stress. You’re probably thinking, “Well, duh!” But there is more to this story than you might realize.

It turns out that people with inflammatory skin diseases like eczema are more susceptible to mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, based on the way their bodies communicate with their brains during an inflammatory response. (But more on that later.)

The point is you already have a basic understanding of how to treat the physical symptoms of this disease. Don’t you think it’s time you focused on the emotional symptoms as well?

In honor of Eczema Awareness Month this October, the National Eczema Association wants you to “Be Well – Mind + Body” and will equip you with the tools you need to live your best life with eczema, starting from the inside-out.

Every Tuesday, we will send a special Eczema Awareness Month email. We’ll talk more about the depression/inflammation connection and give you practical tips for boosting your mental health so you can take back your life once and for all. Are you in?

Eczema Awareness Month: Week 1 Mission

Here’s your first mission: It’s all hands on deck for Eczema Awareness Month this October, and NEA needs your help spreading the word.

  1. Share this blog post on your social media pages
  2. Post on your social channels about your eczema journey with mental health
  3. Don’t forget to tag us @nationaleczema and #eczemamonth

Stay tuned for more weekly missions!

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Thanks to our 2017 Eczema Awareness Month Sponsors

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