#Sweden #mental health #Stockholm #Psoriasis #IFPA

World Psoriasis Day 2026: A Call to Action

On October 29, 2026, the International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA) will launch its global campaign, Look Beyond My Skin, on World Psoriasis Day. This initiative is a crucial response to the challenge faced by over 100 million individuals worldwide living with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, many of whom experience symptoms before reaching the age of 20. Through personal testimonies and awareness, the campaign aims to confront the stigma and discrimination that young people face as a result of their condition.

The Impact of Stigma

Living with psoriasis can lead to significant social isolation, with affected individuals often facing harsh judgments. Daniela Chapman, a 29-year-old from Panama diagnosed with psoriasis since infancy, recounts her painful school experiences. She recalls, "No one in my class wanted to hug me or sit next to me. If I touched something in the classroom, some kids would go over and clean it." The psychological scars from such experiences resonate deeply, contributing to mental health challenges like depression.

Christine, a 23-year-old from Sweden, shares a similar experience. Diagnosed at age six, she vividly remembers being questioned by a customer in her workplace about her skin condition. "I tried to explain that psoriasis is not contagious, but she just put her candy bag on the counter and walked away," Christine reflects. These narratives illustrate a broader issue - the lack of understanding surrounding psoriasis fuels stigma, creating a cycle of isolation.

The Need for Awareness

Frida Dunger, director of IFPAs, emphasizes the urgency of this campaign by stating, "Young people with psoriasis have long been overlooked on the global health agenda. Many face bullying and discrimination during formative years.” Tragically, one in three avoids educational or employment opportunities due to fear of judgment, limiting their potential not only as individuals but also to society at large.

The Look Beyond My Skin campaign strives to foster an inclusive environment in schools, universities, and workplaces, where young individuals with psoriasis are treated with respect and afforded equal opportunities.

Mental Health Consequences

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting both skin and joints, linked to increased risks of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and depression. The impact of psoriasis on mental health is particularly concerning; research indicates that young people living with the disease are at a heightened risk of depression and suicidal thoughts compared to their peers without the condition.

Tarlan Oskooei, president of Young With Psoriasis, a Swedish organization boasting over 2,000 members, highlights that the disease is particularly challenging during vulnerable developmental stages. “Shame, anxiety, bullying, hurtful comments, and stares become a part of daily life,” he explains. This distress often leads young individuals to withdraw from social situations, perpetuating their isolation.

Global Perspectives

As part of the campaign, IFPA interviewed 20 young adults aged 18 to 37 from different regions, sharing their stories through a series of short documentaries. Additionally, IFPA will also release a comprehensive global report detailing the challenges faced by young adults living with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, granting these voices a platform to share their experiences publicly for the first time.

Through this year’s World Psoriasis Day initiative, both IFPA and its member organizations urge society and policymakers to combat stigma and discrimination against those affected by psoriasis. They advocate for psychological support to be recognized as a standard component of psoriasis care, echoing the collective call for understanding and equitable treatment for all individuals living with this condition.

For more insights about the campaign, visit IFPA's Global Actions Overview and explore the Youth Report at IFPA's young adults report.

Conclusion

World Psoriasis Day stands as an essential event to raise awareness and promote understanding around psoriasis. By amplifying young voices through campaigns like Look Beyond My Skin, the IFPA seeks to dismantle the stigma attached to psoriasis, fostering a landscape where every individual can thrive without the burdens of discrimination.