The Influence of a Skin Disease on the Psychological Health of a Patient

Abstract

There are many types of skin diseases, ranging from eczema, to psoriasis, to acne, all of which are known to impact mental health. The goal of this study is to show the effect of skin disorders on mental health by reviewing primary source articles found on a variety of reputable websites such as the National Library of Medicine and BMC Medicine. The methodology involved a systematic search through plenty of trustworthy sources, using key terms such as “skin disease”, “psychological impact”, “mental health”, and “eczema”. It was revealed that skin disorder patients are very vulnerable to depressive conditions and social isolation, which are feelings exacerbated by societal beauty standards and social media influences. Specifically, the visibility of these conditions can increase the chance of feeling self-consciousness and/or shame, which can create a vicious cycle of emotional distress and the worsening of physical symptoms due to the reciprocal relationship between mental health and skin conditions. The study shows that skin diseases have to be treated as physical and psychological problems. Strategies for dealing with a skin condition include having an integrated treatment plan that addresses one's psychological health as well as the physical. For example, a patient may be involved in therapy, or may focus on acquiring a reliable support system. Patients should also embrace a healthy lifestyle, such as proper diet, appropriate exercise, and enough rest. This will benefit physical symptoms and emotional strain. By having their mental and physical needs addressed, patients can enjoy a higher quality of life.