Embodied suffering: Uncovering the illness experiences of patients with severe psoriasis.

Background: The visibility of skin lesions significantly burdens people with psoriasis, leading to social hostility and numerous emotional and psychological problems. These issues adversely affect self-esteem, can result in chronic mental health challenges and cause numerous life problems. This study aimed to explore patients' long-term experiences with severe psoriasis.

Methods: A qualitative study was conducted with 20 patients with psoriasis (PASI ≥12) recruited from general and specialist dermatology practices in a regional teaching hospital in Taiwan. Interviews lasted 60-90 min and data were analysed using content analysis.

Findings: A core theme emerged: 'Embodied suffering-life worse than death'. This overarching concept comprised three interrelated themes: (i) Experiencing physical suffering, (ii) Experiencing psychological suffering and (iii) Experiencing the stigma of suffering.

Conclusion: This study highlights the holistic nature of suffering among individuals with severe psoriasis. It emphasises the need for healthcare professionals to consider the entirety of a patient's circumstances when addressing their suffering.