Psychological effects of hidradenitis suppurativa

The psychological effects of HS often begin with discomfort caused by physical manifestations on the skin. These effects cover many areas, from social relationships to work life. Some of the psychological effects caused by HS:

1. Self-esteem and Body Image

Hidradenitis suppurativa can make it difficult for people to talk openly about their disease to others, as it usually occurs in invisible parts of the body. However, it can also have a negative impact on people's body image. Abscesses, scars and sores spoil the appearance of the body and can make people feel unattractive. This can be particularly challenging for individuals in adolescence.

Over time, individuals with HS may experience a decline in self-esteem, feeling that they do not fit the norms of society. They may experience emotional difficulties such as feeling sexually unattractive, isolation and depression. As a result, the psychological health of individuals can be seriously damaged.

2. Depression and Anxiety

Since hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic disease, it can take a long time to treat and relapses often occur. This can negatively affect the emotional state of individuals. Long-term physical pain, unhealable wounds and uncertainty in the treatment process can lead to depression and anxiety.

HS patients may avoid interacting with others for fear of being ostracised, ridiculed or stigmatised. This feeling of isolation can fuelling depressive thoughts and anxieties. At the same time, lack of response to treatment may create a feeling of hopelessness.

3. Social isolation and exclusion

Hidradenitis suppurativa can negatively affect social interactions because of its physical manifestations. The disease can make it difficult for people to participate in social activities. Sores in areas where sweat glands are concentrated are often painful and can make it difficult to walk, sit or exercise. This prevents individuals from leading an active lifestyle, leading to social isolation.

Patients may avoid interacting with others, which can reinforce feelings of loneliness. People may find it difficult to find emotional support as they feel alone in coping with an illness that is invisible to the outside world.

4. Sexual Health and Relationships

Sexual health can also be negatively affected by HS. Sores on the genitals can cause pain during sexual intercourse, which can lead to loss of sexual desire. In addition, people with HS may feel insecure with their partners, as they often think that their skin looks bad.

Individuals may avoid intimate relationships with their spouse or partner because they try to hide the lesions on their body. This may affect sexual life as well as general relationship dynamics. Emotional attachments, lack of communication and misunderstandings can exacerbate these negative effects on sexual health.

5. Work and Daily Life Challenges

The physical challenges of HS can also affect work and activities of daily living. Chronic pain and infections can make it difficult to fulfil daily tasks. Slow-healing wounds and relapses cause patients to be on a constant course of treatment, which can lead to problems such as persistent absenteeism at work. Loss of performance at work can further damage a person's self-esteem.

In addition, individuals with HS may experience a sense of isolation because they do not appear physically ‘normal’ compared to other members of society. They may be subjected to negative looks from people at work, in social settings or in other communities.



Ways to Deal with Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Psychological ways of dealing with hidradenitis suppurativa play a major role in managing this disease, although they are less talked about than physical treatment processes.

Support Groups: It is recommended that people with HS join support groups that can help them cope with the emotional difficulties they experience. Sharing experiences with other HS patients can reduce the feeling of loneliness.

Psychological Support: Working with a therapist or psychologist can help to cope with depression, anxiety and other psychological problems. Strengthening emotional health allows patients to have a better quality of life.

Family and Friend Support: Open communication with family members and close friends can provide emotional support. Understanding and supportive relationships with loved ones can reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Physical Activity: Regular exercise can improve psychological health. Slow and controlled exercise can improve both physical health and mood.

Developing Self-Esteem: Developing a positive attitude towards one's own body, gaining stronger control over body image, can increase self-esteem.