Interested in the Miami Itch Center?
Living with atopic dermatitis goes beyond the physical discomfort of itchy and inflamed skin. For many, the visibility of the condition can lead to significant emotional and psychological distress, particularly due to misunderstanding and ostracization from others. Individuals with atopic dermatitis often face social stigma; the conspicuous nature of their skin symptoms can result in judgment, avoidance, and even discrimination. This can exacerbate feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression, making daily social interactions and public engagements challenging.
Educating the general public about what atopic dermatitis is, however, can be a powerful tool in changing perceptions and reducing stigma. Awareness campaigns and educational programs can inform people that atopic dermatitis is a common, non-contagious condition that many people manage as part of their daily lives. By increasing understanding, we can foster empathy and support within the community, encouraging a more inclusive environment where individuals feel less judged and more accepted. Moreover, education helps dispel myths and teaches the public about the struggles of those affected, promoting kindness and consideration. Through our program at RASHE, we hope to continue public education about AD in an effort to reduce the mental toll on those affected but also enrich our local communities with knowledge as a whole.
Our program conducts the volunteer educational sessions in two formats as listed below:
In-person
Our in-school RASHE program, facilitated by medical school students, aims to raise awareness and knowledge about atopic dermatitis while combating the stigma and ostracization often faced by adolescents and adults with this condition. Tailored for students aged 12 and above, the presentation typically lasts around 30-45 minutes.
Virtual
Using the Zoom platform, our medical school students conduct the educational programming through the online platform. The presentation and educational format is the same subject content as the one performed in-person.