Engagement with online supports in psoriasis: Relationships with psychological functioning.

Psoriasis has been associated with decreased psychological well-being. Over the last decade, substantial growth has occurred in the availability and use of online communities and virtual support platforms. Minimal research has examined the use of these platforms in psoriasis. The present study evaluated the associations between psoriatic plaque activity, online support usage, and psychological well-being. A sample of participants with psoriasis (N = 164; 42.1% Female) completed a survey containing self-rated questionnaires evaluating the burden of psoriasis, anxiety, depression, and general and body image specific quality of life. Participants who actively engaged in online support platforms reported a lower burden of disease, and higher general and body image specific quality of life. However, no association emerged between online support usage and levels of depression and anxiety. These findings were consistent for consumption and engagement with online support, and further research into the potential benefits of online support in psoriasis is warranted.