As grown adults, it’s hard to look at childhood, as being anything other than an enjoyable time you wish you could go back to and remain forever. Unfortunately, there are many children dealing with health concerns and chronic diseases that impair children from experiencing true enjoyment.
The first symptoms of psoriasis usually occur in early adulthood however 25% of psoriasis cases occur in children under 16, and 10 percent in children under the age of ten. Certainly, no one enjoys having psoriasis, regardless of age. But psoriasis can be especially devastating for children and adolescents. One of the biggest challenges for children with psoriasis is living in anticipation, anxiety, and fear of the next psoriasis flare-up.
Children with psoriasis are concerned about being teased, and harassed for being different. The false notion psoriasis is contagious or related poor hygiene or being dirty causes classmates to go to extreme measures to avoid contact with a child displaying psoriasis symptoms. A greater concern commonly seen in children with psoriasis is feeling angry or overwhelmingly sad about their skin.
Its important for parents and caregivers to help children and teens feel more self-assured and less of an outcast. If a child shows unusual signs of being sad or depressed, it is important to consult with his or her physician about a more aggressive treatment approach.
Because psoriasis can easily develop into seclusion and withdrawal, it’s important for children with psoriasis to engage in social support networks involving others with psoriasis so they can identify with friends.
Usually psoriasis symptoms are the same for children as they are for adults, but treating a child is often trickier because doctors must consider the safety of using medications on a young growing body. New treatment options may control the physical aspects of the disease, but children and teens also need strong psychological support in order to effectively cope with their skin disease.
Every child should have the opportunity to truly indulge in the pleasure and delight of being kid. As parents, caregivers and caring adults it is our responsibility to continue educating the unknowing about the reality of psoriasis and the grip it has on any age.
