Eczema Support Group

I usually dont bring it up myself unless I notice someone staring or if they question me about it. Really I am just honest with everyone and tell them flat out thats what it is, answer any questions they might have and then let them know that I hope that they dont ever get it because it really sucks! If its someone I dont know and they are rude, I make it a point to point out how rude they are in the most unabtrusive way possible. Like saying, I noticed you are staring is there something you wanted? Most people seem to get super emnarrassed when they are called out on rude behavior!
For the most part I find it best to be honest, at least then people know whats going on intead of coming up with their own theories....

i told my best friend the other day..
and she didn't really seem to care..
i told her all about it...and how im in pain alot from it..
but she was like...
"oh well least your not ugly...it will go away in awhille it just a rash."
i just wanted to smack her.
haha.
cuz i do feel ugly and its not a rash..and it won't just go away.

i dont tell people unless they ask. and your right its not a rash. people dont understand. thats when its up to us to educate people about eczema. i cant hide mine. people see it. and they stare. makes me feel like ima freak show on a circus. i dont know how to deal with myself. but dont let it get you down. let it empower you to educate people.

thanks..
i just hate this so much.

when you said that your friend said skin was just a rash that will go away, I know how frustrating it must have been to hear this. My sister says the same thing to me when I talk about how much i hate my exzema. The only thing is that there is not a cure for it, so unlike a rash, there is no definite way to treat it. I'm sorry to hear that your friend didn't support you the way you needed them to be there.

thanks...
she thinks i just want attention..
yeah like i really want people to know i feel like my skin is falling off??

It's hard being a teen. When you're an adult, I find that people are much more understanding. My coworkers at my office are supportive that I'm constantly lathering on Aveeno and that I'm not the first one to volunteer to hand wash dishes in the lunchroom (we've got a dishwasher, not if only I can get people to load it properly!).

It's hard for young people to really appreciate situations that other people are in. Just remember that everyone has his or her own struggle, whether it's a chronic health problem such as ours, or difficult family situation, or bullying, etc. and to try to appreciate problems our friends might be having.

Maybe try being a listening ear to your friend. See what troubles her. Maybe this could help her appreciate what you're going through.

thanks.