3 Tips to Overcome Loneliness with Eczema

Atopic dermatitis and atopic eczema can become isolating. When your skin is clear, the days seem good. Flares are away and friends are here to stay - or so it seems.

When you're not in a flare people seem to be nice, less judgmental, more accepting. For a while, I even forget I'm different. With my skin and condition under control, I almost feel "normal," although I may not always look the part. But this isn't always the case.

Feeling isolated because of eczema

When I'm in a flare it seems like people are much more hesitant to approach me. I know the fear of, "Is she contagious?" is always looming in the back of people's heads. I can tell by the way they glare at my arms, then try to give a little grin when they catch me watching. When our condition is not under control our lives can become lonely, and fast. And while it does suck, there are things you can do to avoid those lonely flared days.

Get involved

The National Eczema Association has ways you can get involved to raise awareness and start conversations about eczema. There are also resources for other conditions as well. These events and things can be awesome ways to get your foot in the door with patient advocacy and they're also a great way to meet more people with your condition. While it's great to have friends and family who can empathize, the connection you make with someone who has actually experienced what you're going through first-hand is priceless.

Facebook groups

Facebook groups are actually my favorite way to connect with like-minded people! It's so easy to sit online and find a virtual support group vs. planning an entire event or going out of your way to meet someone. I still 100% think that there is such value in face to face, human interaction, but sometimes I honestly just don't feel like it! Facebook makes it so easy for lazy people like myself to still find their place and friends in this lonely world!

Support groups

While I personally have never been to an official support group, I have been to organized meetings with people who live with my condition. The meetings are never less than amazing. It feels so good to be surrounded by such positive energy from people who truly get you. How good it feels to not have to explain yourself or your symptoms and to just be understood, cannot even be explained in words! Check out support groups in your area. I don't think you will regret it.

Finding eczema support

There you have it! These are only a few tips I have on keeping some company during a flare or when you're feeling lonely with your condition. There are so many other ways to connect and give back to your community! Hopefully, some of these will be helpful during the next time you're feeling low or having trouble finding friends during your flare.

I appreciate you reading this article! What do you do when you find AD holding you back? How do you make friends during your down days? Let me know in the comments below!