Does stress cause psoriasis?

There is no conclusive evidence that stress directly causes psoriasis. However, stress can trigger or worsen psoriasis symptoms in people who already have the condition. This is because stress can weaken the immune system and increase inflammation in the body, which in turn can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms. Additionally, stress can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as smoking or drinking alcohol, which can also contribute to psoriasis flares. Therefore, while stress may not be the sole cause of psoriasis, it should still be managed and avoided as much as possible by those who suffer from the condition.