In France, eczema concerns 4 million people at least, including 850,000 children and 700,000 adolescents. If itching, lesions and pain are well known, we still speak too little about the psychological impact that the disease can have. However, eczema can truly put morale to the test. So how can we stand up when the body burns and scratches daily?
A psychic suffering still underestimated
“”Eczema does not affect only the skin “recalls Céline Le Bivic, clinical psychologist at Saint-Louis Hospital in Paris with the French Association of Eczema. “It also affects the mental health of those concerned”. Unpredictable thrusts, persistent itching, night pain … This permanent instability can generate a strong feeling of insecurity, even a social isolation that eats away at the person affected on a daily basis.
Added to this is the stigma linked to visible lesions on the face or hands. “Many patients end up wanting to hide, even become transparent, to no longer undergo looks or remarks”, observes the specialist. This discomfort can deteriorate self-esteem, accentuate anxiety and, in some cases, dive towards depression. Repercussions that should no longer be taboo.
The vicious circle of stress in eczema
Another size of size: stress, since it plays a key role in eczema, in double sense. It can both trigger or worsen a thrust … and be supplied by the symptoms of the disease. Result: a vicious circle settles. Cortisol, stress hormone, stimulates inflammation, making the skin even more reactive. So how to get out of it?
“The first step to overcome stigma is to tame your eczema and understand that the disease does not define the individual!” indicates the psychologist. This therefore requires acceptance of difference and in this context, psychological support plays an essential role in this process.
Stress management must also take place in global management. “”Deep breathing, mindfulness meditation, gentle physical activity like yoga or walking are excellent resources “underlines Céline Le Bivic.
5 keys to preserve your well-being despite eczema
More concretely, if dermatological treatments are necessary, psychology advises also evaluating its psychological dimension to help patients manage the emotional impact of the disease.
- Talk about what you are going through: with a loved one, a therapist, or within an association;
- Take care of your body: With an adapted routine, without feeling guilty on more difficult days;
- Revalue your strengths: You are not just your skin. Cultivate what makes you proud (era), even in small victories;
- Move regularly: Exercise releases endorphins, promotes sleep and decreases stress;
- Avoid isolation: Dare to go out, even with a push. The fear of the gaze of others should not steal your social life for you.
“Accepte is also to accept your emotions, your skin, and sometimes, its limits” adds the psychologist. This can go through therapeutic support with a professional aware of the body dimension, but also through the search for support from patient associations. This is particularly the case of the French Association of Eczema, which offers speech groups, practical resources, and above all, a space where you feel understood.