Eczema and Relationships

Eczema and Relationships

Embracing Eczema: Building Relationships and Living an Unapologetic Life

Living with eczema can be a challenging journey, but it doesn’t have to hinder your relationships or prevent you from living an authentic life. Just ask Linette Roungchun, a 35-year-old eczema advocate who has learned to embrace her condition and form “incredibly real” connections as a result.

For the first half of her life, Linette struggled with self-confidence and worried about how her skin looked to others. However, over time, she discovered that being vulnerable and open about her eczema actually helped her foster deeper relationships. Linette believes that everyone has a vulnerable side, and when they witness her embracing her own vulnerability, it inspires them to be themselves as well.

One significant aspect of Linette’s journey is finding love and navigating the dating world with eczema. While she ultimately met her current partner on Instagram, who is also a part of the eczema and topical steroid withdrawal (TSW) community, Linette has used dating apps in the past. Unafraid of her eczema, she posted photos without any skin-smoothing filters. And to ensure openness and honesty, she would bring up her condition before the first date.

Surprisingly, this approach led to beautiful moments. Linette’s dates didn’t focus on her looks but instead expressed genuine concern for her well-being. They would check if certain restaurants were suitable for her allergies or if she had her necessary medications.

Building on Linette’s experiences, she offers practical advice for dating with eczema. One crucial preparation tip, especially for overnight dates, is to bring along a bag of eczema essentials. This includes eczema-friendly moisturizer, preferred cleanser and shampoo, antihistamines, and any specific treatment products. Additionally, packing your towel, pillowcase, and a robe to guard your skin from itchy sheets or blankets can make a significant difference.

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Dr. Lindsey Bordone, an assistant professor of dermatology at Columbia University Medical Center, explains that eczema symptoms can worsen at night since the body’s cortisol levels naturally decrease during this time. Cortisol acts as a natural anti-inflammatory during the day, making eczema more manageable. Moreover, it’s important to note that if first-date jitters have you stressed, consuming alcohol may lead to increased itching for some individuals.

Finding Support and Connection with Others

Whether you are searching for love, friendship, or understanding, connecting with individuals who understand what you’re going through can provide comfort and a sense of belonging. Linette shares that she can instantly recognize fellow eczema sufferers from afar simply by observing their skin patterns.

Linette resides in California, where she actively organizes in-person and virtual meetups for the eczema and TSW communities. Together with her partner, who lives in London, they have created a global remote chat known as The Itch Factor. This platform brings together performers within the eczema community, fostering support and camaraderie as they navigate this challenging condition.

For those seeking support, there are various options available. Online groups, local meetups, and social media hashtags can serve as gateways to finding like-minded individuals who share similar experiences. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram host numerous communities focused on eczema and related conditions, providing a safe space for individuals to connect and find solace in shared experiences.

Open Communication with Loved Ones

When it comes to communicating with family and friends about your eczema, it’s essential to remember that they may have more knowledge and understanding than you realize. Dr. Lindsey Bordone suggests explaining your symptoms by describing your eczema as a condition that intermittently flares up, causing significant itching and discomfort.

Linette takes a more detailed approach, likening her eczema to an injury that covers her entire body, causing intense itching alongside an open scab-like sensation. When discussing eczema with family members, she highlights that its impact on quality of life is comparable to cerebral palsy, illustrating the condition’s significance and the support needed.

Regardless of the approach taken, it is crucial not to keep your symptoms to yourself. Sharing your experiences and challenges with loved ones can make a significant difference. By understanding what you are going through, they will be more compassionate and accommodating when you need to cancel plans or opt-out of activities that may aggravate your symptoms.

Don’t shy away from expressing how eczema affects your daily life, such as disrupting your sleep, hindering your ability to work, or impacting your mental health. Your loved ones’ support can go a long way in helping you manage and navigate through these challenges.

Nurturing Your Social Life

Eczema may sometimes make you feel self-conscious about your appearance, and the itching and pain can be overwhelming, leading to a desire to isolate yourself. However, nurturing your social life is crucial for both your mental and physical well-being. Here are some tips for maintaining an active social life:

1. Don’t isolate yourself: While it may appear easier to avoid others when you feel self-conscious, ongoing conditions like eczema increase the risk of anxiety and depression. Loneliness can intensify these feelings, making it vital for your mental health to be surrounded by supportive individuals.

2. Prioritize significant events: You don’t have to attend every social gathering, but try not to miss out on important occasions. Linette, for instance, ensures she attends milestone events like nieces or nephews’ birthdays or close friends’ weddings. Embracing these special moments can be uplifting and rewarding.

3. Engage in activities that distract you: Finding an activity or passion that allows you to momentarily forget about your skin condition can provide respite and mental relief. Linette personally finds solace when she performs on stage through acting and opera. Discovering something that captivates you can make the rest of the world and your eczema fade away.

4. Seek mental health support: Managing life with an ongoing illness like eczema can be mentally and emotionally challenging. Engaging with a psychiatrist or psychologist can help you navigate these difficulties, providing you with coping mechanisms and a safe space to share your emotions and concerns.

At the end of the day, it’s important to remember that eczema should never define you or hinder you from experiencing the joy and beauty of life. As Linette Roungchun aptly states, “This illness can’t take away strong friendships and intimate relationships.” Embrace your eczema, be open about your experiences, and surround yourself with understanding and supportive individuals who will uplift and stand by you through it all.