How stress affects the skin in cases of Vitiligo.
The skin and the nervous system originate from the same structure during early fetal development. This is one of the reasons why emotional life may affect the skin either positively or negatively.
The skin has great psychological importance at all ages. It is an organ of emotional expression and a site for the discharge of anxiety. For example, caressing favors emotional development, learning and growth of newborn infants.
Vitiligo is an autoimmune condition. The nervous system and the immune system work in close interaction. The brain regulates the activity of the immune system. Because of this autoimmune disorders are affected by emotional factors and stress.
It is widely recognized that acute and chronic stress have an impact on the immune system. Stress can indirectly affect Vitiligo. Cultivating a positive self-image, an optimistic outlook on life and good coping skills can minimize the impact of stress on the immune system.
Vitiligo and stress management
Cultivating a positive self-image, an optimistic outlook on life and good coping skills can help minimize the impact of stress on the immune system and as a result may help control Vitiligo. Appropriate stress management is important in general, and particularly in cases of Vitiligo. A strategy to control stress should include the following:
Become aware of what stresses you and your emotional and physical reactions. Notice your distress. Don't ignore it. Determine what events or factors distress you. If stress is caused by events ask yourself what is the meaning you are attributing to this events?
Recognize what you can change or modify. This may include both specific events events and other factors that increase stress. Can you change the causes of stress by avoiding or eliminating them completely? Can you reduce their intensity?
Reduce the intensity of your emotional reactions to stress. Are you viewing your stressors in exaggerated terms and/or taking a difficult situation and making it a disaster? Moderate your physical reactions to stress. Slow, deep breathing will bring your heart rate and respiration back to normal. Relaxation techniques can reduce stress. Medications, when necessary, as prescribed by a physician, can help in the short term in moderating your reactions. Learning to moderate these reactions on your own is a preferable long-term solution.
Build your physical reserves. Exercise for cardiovascular fitness. Eat well-balanced, nutritious meals. Maintain weight within acceptable limits. Avoid nicotine, excessive caffeine, and other stimulants/depressants. Combine leisure with work. Get enough sleep.
Maintain your emotional reserves. Develop mutually supportive relationships. Cultivate supportive friendships. Pursue realistic goals. Find purpose and meaning for your life.
Cultivate your self-esteem. Be kind and gentle with yourself. Be your "best friend" to yourself. Use the critic inside you to learn more about yourself. Do not let it be your enemy.
Expect some frustrations and failures as part of being alive, learn from them.
If in doubt about your capacity to effectively cope with stress, seek professional help.
Strategies to cope with Vitiligo.
Taking the following steps will help you develop coping strategies according to your particular case and needs:
Find a doctor who is knowledgeable and experienced regarding Vitiligo. Your doctor should be able to listen to your concerns and take Vitiligo seriously. A doctor who states: "there is no treatment for Vitiligo" or "it is only cosmetic" is probably not the right choice.
Learn as much as possible about Vitiligo in order to make well-informed decisions.
When necessary, a psychologist or therapist who has experience in counseling people with medical conditions which affect their body image should be able to work with you to strengthen your self-esteem and your sense of personal dignity.
If in doubt, always seek professional advice regarding stress, anxiety or depression. Stress can frequently be prevented or controlled through a number of actions adjusted according to the needs of the individual. Anxiety and depression are treatable. Usually the best way to treat these conditions is through regular sessions with a therapist and, when necessary, medication.
Consider exchanging information and support with other people who have Vitiligo.