When did it begin?

I don’t exactly remember when my journey with psoriasis began but it was harmless – a few small red patches here and there that I initially brushed off as inconsequential or rather i considered it to be some temporary changes with change in weather. But as time passed, those patches grew, and with them came the relentless itching, discomfort, and self-consciousness. Before I knew it, psoriasis had infiltrated every aspect of my life – from my physical health to my mental well-being.

I embarked on a journey through various treatments – ayurveda, allopathy, homeopathy – each offering initial promise but ultimately failing to provide lasting relief. After months of relentless trials, I found myself losing faith in the effectiveness of any medication. As the treatments proved futile in curing my psoriasis, they began to take a toll on my mental health.

I retreated into myself, avoiding social interactions and concealing my flares under caps and avoided wearing my favourite black t-shirt to hide the shedding skin. I couldn’t help but question what I had done to deserve this? I had always prioritized my health, abstaining from alcohol and cigarettes, yet here I was, grappling with a condition that seemed beyond my control.

There were fleeting moments of respite, when the flares would disappear, only to resurface with a vengeance, spreading rapidly across my body. The doctors’ advice to avoid stress seemed laughable – how could I possibly do that when every work involve certain amount of stress be it making a tea or writing a program or being a leader.

It took nearly a year for me to come to terms with my p-reality, to accept myself and my skin for what it was. Living with a visible condition like psoriasis brought its own set of challenges – stares, questions, and unsolicited advice – but I refused to let it define me. Instead, I chose to educate others about psoriasis, breaking down barriers and fostering understanding wherever I went.

Today, my journey with psoriasis continues, but it’s no longer defined by fear or frustration. With a treatment plan in place and a commitment to self-care, I’ve regained control of my life. Psoriasis may always be a part of my story, but it no longer dictates who I am or what I’m capable of achieving.