Many loving relationships express their love through touch and intimacy. But for those dealing with chronic conditions, it can be challenging. Prior to meeting my girlfriend, Sam, I didn’t know how she would react. But ever since I met her, she accepted me.
The more comfortable we got with each other, the more we knew about one another – especially my psoriasis. The marks were out for display, and I knew it could be a lot to take on, but she did with no issue.
My hope is that individuals battling their psoriasis are able to find someone who will love them, chronic disease or not, through thick and thin. Having a partner who accepts me as I am and loves me across the board is someone that allows me to get past it mentally.
It’s never been a big deal, and she’s gifted me skin healing products, too. I appreciate that a bunch. Facing brutal winters together has really bonded us together. At times, I forget that I even deal with it because she showed me how easy it can be to accept it and know that people who love you won’t judge you.
Ultimately, you have to be the one who loves yourself. While it is amazing to have someone by your side that loves and supports you no matter what, you have to do that yourself. Your mindset can’t be bogged down because of what you’re going through on the outside. Work on what is happening on the inside and think positive.
Since my 2018 diagnosis, I have met many people with skin conditions, and they’re in loving relationships. Someone will love you for what’s on the inside, not just the outside. There is no reason to ever doubt your dating or relationship potential despite what you’re battling internally.
The down-to-earth people you come across will assess you based on your attitude and your personality more than your external appearance. Are there challenges of psoriasis in romantic relationships? Sure, but as you go, you learn to mitigate them and accept them.
If you are the one dealing with psoriasis, you get to write your story. You can accept the circumstances and approach life head-on, or you can blame yourself and never learn to truly love yourself.
When the love starts within, it becomes much easier to be in a healthy, positive, long-lasting relationship.
Photo Credit: Tim Robberts / Stone via Getty Images
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