PSORIASIS SURVEY:Psoriasis may be thought of as a relatively uncommon skin condition but a recent survey revealed that half the population in Ireland have a family member or friend affected by it.
The survey also found that 51 per cent of those who are aware of psoriasis believe it is "fairly or very difficult" to live with. The survey was carried out by Lansdowne Market Research.
Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory and non-contagious disease of the skin which affects about 100,000 people in Ireland.
The survey found the majority of those surveyed are aware that there is no cure for psoriasis, that it is not contagious and that it can happen to anyone at any age. However, opinion is divided as to whether certain foods play a role in aggravating this condition.
Asked if the type of food consumed had an effect on psoriasis, 50 per cent of people thought certain food affected it. However, diet is not thought to play a role in psoriasis.
For further information about psoriasis visit www.psoriasisireland.ie
NATUROPATHIC SEMINARS:The college of naturopathic medicine is holding a series of seminars in Griffith College Dublin over the next few weeks. The seminars will feature speakers from Ireland, Britain and the US, including nutritionist Patrick Holford, Irish herbalist Roísín O'Kelly and nutritional therapist Melanie Stephens.
Topics will include: can food really be used to improve our mental health? How exactly does what we eat affect our mood and emotions? Can diet prevent - even reverse - diabetes?
For details of times and dates, phone: 01-2353094 or visit www.naturopathy-ireland.com
NEW COUNSELLORS:The Living Life Centre in Bray, Co Wicklow, is appointing two part-time counsellors to work specifically with people at risk of suicide. One therapist will cover Bray centre while the other will work between Dún Laoghaire and Arklow centres. The centre successfully applied for funding to the Dormant Accounts Funds for this project.
It was established in Bray in 1996 to provide counselling and supportive services to those who could not otherwise afford it. It helps people with issues such as depression, addiction, abuse, bereavement, relationship problems and suicide.