AN-PING HUO2026-10-162026-10-162024-12-01Pure ID: 15332904Pure UUID: 20008189-00eb-4d0c-948c-08bbaa6756c110.1111/scs.13305https://www.scopus.com/pages/publications/85205288227https://scholars.csmu.edu.tw/handle/123456789/30625Background: 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.9enjournal article