Work Considerations
We spend almost a third of our lives at work. And maybe more time with our coworkers than our significant others.
Those of us with psoriasis have the additional full-time job of managing our condition in the workplace: dealing with coworkers' misperceptions, coping with flares, and meeting and impressing new people.
It takes courage, creativity, and understanding on both sides—but working with psoriasis is a challenge you can overcome.
Talking about psoriasis with your coworkers
Meeting new people is a part of many jobs. Some careers consist almost entirely of meeting new people. And often, even outgoing people confess that they feel nervous when it comes to making new acquaintances.
It may not be easy talking to a boss or coworkers about psoriasis, especially if they're not familiar with the condition. And the choice to discuss or not discuss psoriasis is a highly personal one that may make you feel awkward, uncomfortable, or even afraid.
At the same time, addressing your situation directly can help you take charge of it. When you educate those around you about psoriasis, you create an opportunity to:
- Correct misconceptions
- Gain support from your colleagues
- Transform your workplace into a more open environment for everyone
If you choose to talk about psoriasis at work
Don’t put it off
The sooner your coworkers understand, the less misinformation you'll have to correct. Most likely, they'll appreciate your candor—and your courage.
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 were reversed. The more you can communicate that you're at ease with psoriasis, the more at ease others will be.
What to tell your coworkers about psoriasis
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 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.
For example, you might say something like this:
"I want you to be able to concentrate on what I'm saying here, because it may be very important to you later. 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. It can be itchy and annoying, but if you've ever had bad mosquito bites or poison ivy, you know what it feels like. So let's get back to our real purpose for getting together today and discuss…"
Prioritize your work when flares occur
Cut yourself a little slack during a flare-up. Concentrate on your most important tasks when you have the most energy. Overdoing things can trigger exhaustion and stress, which could make a flare-up even worse.
Stay positive
And remember, stay positive. Don't let negative thoughts take over when you're having a low-energy day or feeling down. You are in control of how you relate to the disease.
Be informed
Check out our Resources Library, so you're familiar with the latest developments in psoriasis treatment and care, and so you're able to answer any questions that might come up. For coworkers who have further questions, consider sharing an article or the address of a Web site that you've found helpful. Encourage them to explore the page about relating to someone with psoriasis, right here.
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If you choose to not talk about psoriasis at work
What is my condition like right now?
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 keeping psoriasis a secret may also cause you anxiety and stress, two problems that can actually make the condition worse.
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