Psoriasis Awareness: Ways to Get Involved This Psoriasis Action Month

Psoriasis affects millions of people worldwide, causing physical discomfort and emotional distress. This August, you have the opportunity to make a difference during Psoriasis Action Month. By raising psoriasis awareness, you can help combat misconceptions, support those affected, and contribute to ongoing research efforts. Your involvement can have a significant impact on the lives of individuals living with this chronic skin condition.

Throughout this article, you'll discover various ways to get involved in Psoriasis Action Month. We'll start by giving you a quick overview of psoriasis and why this awareness month is so important. Then, we'll explore practical steps you can take to support the cause, from sharing information on social media to participating in local events. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of how to make a meaningful contribution to the psoriasis community.

Understanding Psoriasis: A Brief Overview

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated disease that causes inflammation in the body. This chronic condition affects millions of people worldwide, leading to visible signs of inflammation such as raised plaques and scales on the skin. You may notice these plaques and scales on various parts of your body, particularly on the elbows, knees, and scalp.

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis occurs when your immune system speeds up skin cell growth, causing cells to pile up on the surface instead of shedding normally. This process, which typically takes a month, happens in just three or four days for people with psoriasis.

Common symptoms and types

Common symptoms include itchiness, burning, and stinging plaques. There are five types of psoriasis, and it's possible to have more than one type simultaneously or throughout your lifetime. The most common type, affecting about 8 in 10 people with psoriasis, is plaque psoriasis. If you have been diagnosed with a type of psoriasis you may be prescribed medication. See if you can save on your prescription medication for psoriasis with Inside Rx. Download your prescription savings coupon and take it to one of the 60,000 pharmacies nationwide with your prescription to see if you can save.

Impact on quality of life

Psoriasis can significantly impact your quality of life. It may interfere with sleep, make it hard to concentrate, and increase your risk for related conditions like cardiovascular disease, depression, and type 2 diabetes. Additionally, psoriasis can be highly stigmatizing, often mistakenly believed to be contagious.

The Importance of Psoriasis Action Month

Every August, organizations like the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) and LiVDerm come together to support Psoriasis Action Month. This initiative aims to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and build a supportive community for those affected by psoriasis.

Raising awareness and reducing stigma

Psoriasis Action Month provides an opportunity to educate the public about this chronic condition. By sharing your story on social media using #ThisIsPsoriasis, you can help others understand the challenges faced by those living with psoriasis. This awareness can lead to reduced stigma and increased empathy for individuals dealing with the visible symptoms of psoriasis.

Supporting research and treatment advancements

The month-long focus on psoriasis helps to raise funds for critical research. These efforts have led to new treatments, including steroid-free topicals, targeted biologics, and oral medications. By participating in Psoriasis Action Month, you contribute to advancing research and improving treatment options for those affected by psoriasis.

Building a supportive community

Psoriasis Action Month brings together individuals affected by psoriasis, creating a strong support network. This community provides comfort and reassurance, reminding you that you're not alone in your journey. By getting involved in events and sharing experiences, you can connect with others who understand your challenges and offer mutual support.

Ways to Get Involved in Psoriasis Action Month

Share your story on social media

You can make a difference by sharing your psoriasis journey on social media platforms. Use hashtags like #ThisIsPsoriasis to connect with others and raise awareness. Your story can help reduce stigma and provide support to those facing similar challenges.

Participate in virtual and local events

The National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) hosts various events to bring the community together. You can join virtual activities like the PsO Virtual Active Day, which helps fund critical research without leaving your home. Check for local events in your area or sign up for email updates about upcoming gatherings.

Donate to psoriasis research organizations

Your financial support can have a significant impact on psoriasis research. The NPF offers multiple giving options, including monthly donations and employer matching programs. These contributions help fund groundbreaking research for better treatments and potentially a cure for psoriatic disease.

Educate others about psoriasis

Take the opportunity to inform others about psoriasis. Share that it's an immune-mediated disease affecting up to 3.2% of the U.S. population. Explain that psoriasis is not contagious and can impact more than just the skin. By educating others, you can help reduce misconceptions and increase understanding of this chronic condition.

Conclusion

Psoriasis Action Month offers a powerful opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those affected by this chronic condition. By getting involved, you can help to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and support ongoing research efforts. Your participation, whether through sharing your story, joining events, or making donations, has an impact on building a stronger, more supportive community for individuals living with psoriasis.

As we've explored, there are many ways to contribute to this important cause. From educating others about the realities of psoriasis to supporting research organizations, every action counts. By taking part in Psoriasis Action Month, you're not just helping others – you're also empowering yourself and others in the psoriasis community. So, consider how you can get involved this August and be a part of the movement to improve lives and advance psoriasis research.