Embodied suffering: Uncovering the illness experiences of patients with severe psoriasis.

BACKGROUND

The visibility of skin lesions significantly burdens people with psoriasis, leading to social hostility and numerous emotional and psychological problems. These issues adversely affect self-esteem, can result in chronic mental health challenges and cause numerous life problems. This study aimed to explore patients' long-term experiences with severe psoriasis.

METHODS

A qualitative study was conducted with 20 patients with psoriasis (PASI ≥12) recruited from general and specialist dermatology practices in a regional teaching hospital in Taiwan. Interviews lasted 60-90 min and data were analysed using content analysis.

FINDINGS: A core theme emerged: 'Embodied suffering-life worse than death'. This overarching concept comprised three interrelated themes: (i) Experiencing physical suffering, (ii) Experiencing psychological suffering and (iii) Experiencing the stigma of suffering.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights the holistic nature of suffering among individuals with severe psoriasis. It emphasises the need for healthcare professionals to consider the entirety of a patient's circumstances when addressing their suffering.