5 Things It's Okay To Do With Atopic Eczema

Living with conditions like atopic dermatitis and eczema can be challenging. Our conditions don't get much attention and it can be easy to feel like you're "less than" or your condition doesn't matter as much as the next. But it does.

It's okay to...

Feel

It's okay to be emotional. It's okay to be angry. It's okay to cry. Give yourself permission to feel. Atopic eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) may not get a lot of attention. Our conditions may not make the news or have huge documentaries, but they still matter. You matter. It's okay to be mad or feel unhappy. It's okay to feel different. And it's certainly okay to express those emotions. Allow yourself the freedom to feel. It can be such a stress reliever. You're still strong. Even the strongest of people have emotions.

Talk

It's not always easy to talk about a condition that can be spotted so easily by the public. It can get embarrassing and at times even a little awkward. Talking about your condition, or the stress of taking care of a loved ones can be just what you need. Talking can help calm your nerves and allow you to bring all of those emotions you've been pushing down, to the surface.

Take a break

I know. You've done your research. You've seen those five top dermatologists in your area, even a few in other areas too. You've tried all the latest treatments. You've bought the expensive over-the-counter remedies. It's okay. We've all been there. I know what it's like to be willing to do anything for a moment of relief. It's hard. It's a hard life to live. It takes a lot out of you. It's okay to take a break. Take some time for yourself. Take some time away from Google. Put away all the books. Even if only for a day, that may be just what you need. Self-care is just as important as any other kind. It's good for your mental and physical health. Don't stress yourself out so much being so focused on "feeling better" that you cause your condition to flare or worsen. Take time for yourself. Breathe a little. Do some things you enjoy.

Complain

It's not "just atopic dermatitis" or "just eczema." It's much more than that. Your condition is serious. Don't feel like you always have to quiet yourself about your condition and how you really feel. Let people know how you feel. Be honest. Complain if you want to complain. Scream. Yell. Show people how complicated your condition really is.

Show It

For yearssss I felt as if I needed to hide my condition. I was so embarrassed. Ashamed. I didn't want anyone to see what my condition had done to my body. I feared people would judge me. Talk about me behind my back. Was I right? Probably, but I don't let that scare me anymore. When people see my arms, I don't stress too much anymore. If they ask, I'll tell them. Usually, they know someone with something similar anyway. Don't feel ashamed of your body. After all, everyone has something they're not proud of.