As part of our A Hand to Hold campaign, we recently asked people to take part in our kindness survey so we could gauge how participants feel others react to their skin condition. We received almost 700 responses, and sadly, 34% of those feel that people are not kind and supportive, with one participant stating: “People don’t realise how much it gets me down and how sore it can be.”
Our survey revealed that 30% of people said that they have experienced somebody saying something negative to them about their skin condition, with 48% saying that it affects them if somebody is unkind. Comments included:
“It makes me feel depressed and embarrassed”
“I take it really personally. I try not to let it affect me but it always does
“It does not make me feel good at all.”
As we delved deeper, it’s unsurprising that many participants went on to state that they feel insecure due to their skin condition, with 43% of people stating they feel very self-conscious and worry about what other people think.
Further statistics included:
Fortunately, many inspiring coping mechanisms were shared to help others who are affected by unkind behaviour from others:
Furthermore, when we asked people to give their advice to those who have been affected by unkind words, comments included:
If you feel like you need someone to talk to, consider speaking to your GP or a counsellor. Mental health charity MIND can also help you find the support you need. Visit www.mind.org.uk, call the Mind Infoline on 0300 123 3393 or send a text to 86463.