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

Scand J Caring Sci. 2024 Dec;38(4):1041-1049. doi: 10.1111/scs.13305. Epub 2024 Sep 27.

Abstract

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.

Keywords: experience; long‐term treatment; psoriasis; qualitative research; severe.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Psoriasis* / psychology
  • Qualitative Research
  • Stress, Psychological / psychology
  • Taiwan