Background: I've had eczema on my arms and legs for much of my childhood. I was self-conscious about my appearance due to the rashes and would cover up or feel really embarrassed if covering up wasn't an option. When my junior year of high school hit, the eczema finally went away and it was such a relief. About a month ago though, I developed a new type of eczema, now on my hands. 

There are several types of worries associated with the existence of a new type of eczema. I'm worried about how I'll be judged by others, especially considering that it's my hands and I can't cover them up. I'm worried about how I'll be able to live a normal life since it's very hard to use my hands for everyday tasks when they're super red and irritated. Because I'll be in college soon, it's particularly stressful thinking about coping with it there, as I won't have my parents to help me with certain tasks that require hand use. Because my hands come into contact with more things than my arms or legs, infection is also likely. In fact, I'm currently on antibiotics because my hands have gotten infected. I'm worried because it seemed to get better a few times in the past month but then got worse again, making the future seem grim.  

In addition to anxiety, there are some other emotional difficulties. For example, I feel bad about myself due to this health issue. No one else I know in real life deals with eczema and it's typically seen as a "childhood" issue. I feel unlucky that I never grew out of it like most people. It's pretty depressing that I felt so relieved that I hadn't had a flare-up in the longest time only for it to reemerge in a different, and arguably worse, form. I also feel guilty about this issue because my skin has been dry for months and I'd itch it regularly to alleviate things. One time I itched it pretty hard after a stressful situation and it went downhill from there. I hate myself so much for potentially starting an issue I'll have to deal with for the rest of my life. I haven't told my parents what I think led to the problem, but they are saying it's my fault because I haven't been taking care of my health properly during the past few years (e.g. not exercising regularly). It's hurtful just getting blamed for it instead of receiving emotional support.

Does anyone have any tips for dealing with my feelings? Even if you don't have eczema but another health condition that's caused anxiety, I'd be interested to hear what has helped you cope. Thank you!