Ultimately, learning to advocate for yourself can make a significant difference in both your physical and mental health.
There is research to back that up too.
Of course, that can be easier said than done.
If you have psoriasis, it can be important to advocate for yourself at your doctor’s office.
Knowing how and when to advocate for yourself may not come naturally or easily.
But thats not to say its impossible, and weve got some tips and resources to help.
We also asked a board-certified dermatologist to provide advice from the other side of the table.
Heres what they think you should know about advocating for yourself at appointments.
Tip #1: Always trust that you know your body best.
While the onus really shouldnt be on you to do this, sometimes that is the reality.
Tip #2: Search for a specialist if it’s possible for you to.
She was diagnosed with painful palmoplantar psoriasis, also known ashand psoriasis, in her late 20s.
Like Kellogg, she stresses the importance of seeing a dermatologist who specializes in psoriasis.
While the idea of just finding a specialist sounds great, its often not that simple.
This is a problem that is borne out in the research too.
Another option is finding a doctor or other health care provider through a telehealth platform.
Bring this journal to your appointments and discuss it with your doctor.
Tip #3: Be honest about your symptoms.
Hiding how psoriasis impacts you isnt going to serve anyoneyou or your doctor.
This helped her feel empowered and also an equal player on the health care team.
My doctor can only help me if Im sharing my full story with them.
Cybele Fishman, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist withAdvanced Dermatology PC, agrees with that sentiment.
If it hurts to be physically intimate due to genital psoriasis, say so.
If youre too embarrassed to date because of your facial psoriasis, speak up.
If psoriasis is affecting your mental health, thats okay to say too.
That rings especially true for people of color, particularly when it comes topsoriasis treatment.
You and your doctor can work together to determine the risk-versus-reward factors for the treatments you are considering.
If you dont feel heard, let your doctor know.
Seeking a second opinion doesnt have to be contentious, though.
Nextor if you dont have insuranceyou can ask your primary care doctor for names.
Tip #7: Be persistent with insurance and ask about financial assistance.
You are the customer of that insurance companythe doctor is not.
Other financial-assistance options include advocacy groups, nonprofit organizations, and prescription savings cards.
TheNational Psoriasis Foundationis a good place to start if youre in need of financial assistance.
Tip #8: Recognize that mental health is important too.
Psoriasis can be a deeply emotional condition that can impact your self-esteem and overall mental and emotional health.
Just know there are so many resources out thereyou do not have to figure this out by yourself.
