Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Living with Vitiligo

Vitiligo seems to look like a life sentences as the course of this disease is unpredictable, nobody can be sure how it will progress and until a cure is found people with Vitiligo must learn to live with it. Many treatments are available that can improve the condition and can re-pigment the white patches but there always exists chances of de-pigmentation and progression of white patches.

Most of the people who suffer from Vitiligo may experience a wide array of feelings and emotions including shock, denial, anger, fear, guilt, anxiety, isolation, depression and finally acceptance. These people may also experience low self esteem and lack of self. Because of these psychological factors many Vitiligo patients are unable to fulfill their potential. Numerous children are teased and bullied at school because of their white patches. For psychosocial problem like these counseling is the most important factor to deal with these problems.

Do not get discouraged and try to realize that it can be re-pigmented or disguised. You should focus on your good points and try building up your self esteem. Once you have achieved self confidence it would become easier for you to deal with intrusive staring and rude remarks and go out in public without feeling ashamed or ugly. If you have tried to boost your self confidence but were left unsuccessful try getting help from friends, family or you can also consult a mental health professional.

It is not surprising that people stare at the sight of Vitiligo because it looks strange and is not as common as normal pigmented skin. Be prepared for this situation and try getting adjusted in it. If people ask you that what happened to you, tell them that it is Vitiligo and it is not contagious. If somebody makes fun of you or passes insensitive remarks, just reply them in a humorous manner.

Vitiligo is not a tragedy although the de-pigmentation caused by this disease can threaten you. You should always thank God that Vitiligo is not physically dangerous and your life is safe. Just stop worrying about your Vitiligo and either try to deal with your Vitiligo without treatment or look for some effective re-pigmentation treatments or Vitiligo cover makeup.