We know that HS can stop people from doing the things they enjoy. Pain, discharging abscesses, fatigue and visible scarring can make people feel self-conscious and embarrassed, which can lead to them avoiding certain activities and social situations, or isolating themselves completely. In a 2020 survey by the Canadian Skin Patient Alliance (CSPA), 85% of respondents with HS said that the condition had a negative effect on their ability to enjoy social interactions. This can have a huge impact on people’s personal relationships, work and social life, which in turn can have a significant impact on their mental wellbeing.
Sadly, it is common for people with HS to experience mental health issues including anxiety, depression and even suicidal thoughts. In fact, a study among people with HS in Canada found that over half of the respondents said they had depression. The 2020 CSPA survey found that depression was one of the top three issues that people with HS struggled with. It’s important to know that you are not alone. Speaking with a counsellor, psychologist or other mental health professional can be helpful.
Self-care is also really important. Here are some things you can do to improve your mental wellbeing:
- Ask for help. It may be hard for your family and friends to know how they can help, and it can be difficult to ask for help. But it’s important to know that they will want to help you in any way they can. Ask them to support you, even if it is just fetching a heating pad, helping you getting dressed or washing the dishes.
- Eat well. Enjoy foods that make you feel good, healthy and energized.
- Limit stress. If at all possible, remove or decrease the things in your life that are causing you stress.
- Get fresh air. Go outdoors and spend time in nature, whether it’s on a balcony, in garden or at a nearby park.
- Keep up with your hobbies. Don’t quit doing what you love because of HS. You may have to modify the way you do it, but where there’s a will, there’s a way. HS can take a lot away from you, but it doesn’t have to take away your hobbies.
- Join a support group. Spend some time speaking and listening to others who are facing a similar life circumstance. You’ll be surprised at how quickly feelings of isolation and loneliness fade and feelings of empowerment grow.
I co-authored an international report on HS that includes more information about the condition, its impact on people’s lives, and the policy and system changes needed to improve HS care. Please visit The Health Policy Partnership’s (HPP) website to read the international report, a summary of the situation in Canada and other resources. HPP was commissioned by UCB, which initiated and funded the project.
