The phrase “heartbreak of psoriasis” originated in the 1960s with an advertising campaign for Teagrin, a topical cold tar product.

“Heartbreak of psoriasis” refers to psoriasis’s emotional and mental health impacts. People with psoriasis are more likely to experience certain mental health conditions, like depression, compared to people without psoriasis. They may also experience:

  • low self-esteem
  • anxiety
  • isolation
  • tobacco or alcohol use disorder
  • binge eating

Severe depression has a higher prevalence in people with psoriasis.

The reasons for this extend beyond discontent with the appearance of psoriasis scales.

Psoriasis causes inflammation, which can also affect other body systems, including the brain and nervous system. This may be one possible reason that people with psoriasis develop depression.

Treating inflammation may potentially help psychological distress.

Depression in people with psoriasis can lead to a reduced quality of life. It can also make symptoms and health conditions more likely, such as:

Depression, along with psoriasis, was generally more common in females than in males.

Having psoriasis may also affect personality, and is associated with traits such as:

  • increased tendency toward worry
  • irritability
  • gloom
  • social inhibition and reticence
  • lack of self-assurance

Because inflammation caused by psoriasis is related to other health conditions, including those that affect the brain and mental health.

Treatment for psoriasis typically involves topical products and medications that help reduce inflammation and psoriasis scales on the skin.

However, if you have severe psoriasis, healthcare professionals may recommend a systemic treatment that targets inflammation and the immune system throughout your body. These medications can be oral, injected, or infused.

Talk therapy may also help people with psoriasis manage the emotional and mental health aspects of psoriasis. This can include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps you recognize negative thought patterns and behaviors and replace them with more protective ones.

Treatment for other mental and physical health conditions may also help.