Supporting Psoriasis Wellbeing: Take Part in a New Academic Research Study

At Psoriatic Disease UK, we are very vocal about the mental and emotional burden that often accompanies psoriatic disease. We know that accessing psychological support tailored to skin conditions can be difficult, which is why we are always encouraged to see new academic research focusing on this vital area.

We were recently contacted by Abbey Hackman, a Trainee Clinical Psychologist at Royal Holloway, University of London, who is running a study to evaluate a newly developed, self-guided online programme. This programme combines psoriasis education with compassion-based therapy to help support emotional wellbeing.

Please note: This is an independent, unfunded academic study. Psoriatic Disease UK is not affiliated with, nor are we sponsoring, this research. We are simply sharing this opportunity with our community to help advance understanding and support for the mental health impacts of psoriasis.

About the Study

The study is piloting an online self-help programme designed to help individuals develop self-compassion and better understand their psoriasis. By taking part, you could learn scientifically proven skills to improve your emotional wellbeing, whilst helping researchers improve future support for people living with the condition.

As a thank you, participants who complete the study will be entered into a prize draw to win a £50 voucher or one of two £25 vouchers.

What Does it Involve?

Depending on the group you are allocated to, participation will last approximately 9 to 15 weeks in total. This involves:

• Completing four questionnaires about your psoriasis, emotional wellbeing, and quality of life.

• Taking part in a five-week self-guided online programme (requiring around 30 minutes per week).

• Providing feedback on your experience of the programme.

• Completing follow-up questionnaires at the end of the programme and again four weeks later.

  
  

Who Can Take Part?

The researchers are looking for individuals who meet the following criteria:

• Adults who have been diagnosed with psoriasis for at least one year.

• Individuals with access to the internet who are able to read and speak English.

• Those who have no previous mental health support specifically for their skin condition.

• Individuals who are not currently accessing psychological therapy or under the care of a mental health team.

  
  

How to Get Involved

If you fit the criteria and are interested in taking part, you can reach out to the lead researcher directly.

Contact: Abbey Hackman (Trainee Clinical Psychologist, Royal Holloway University) Email: Abbey.Hackman.2024@live.rhul.ac.uk

(This study is supervised by Dr Michelle Wilson and Dr Alexandra Mizara at Royal Holloway, University of London).