Title : The impact of skin disease on patients psychological well-being
Abstract:
There are many types of skin diseases, ranging from eczema to psoriasis, to acne, all of which are known to greatly impact mental health. This study examines the psychological effects of dermatological conditions by reviewing primary source articles from reputable databases such as the National Library of Medicine and BMC Medicine, using a systematic search of peer reviewed literature with key terms including “skin disease,” “psychological impact,” “mental health,” and “eczema”. Findings revealed that patients with skin disorders are particularly vulnerable to depression and social isolation - feelings often intensified by societal beauty standards and social media exposure - and that the visibility of these conditions can heighten feelings of self-consciousness and 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. Our results showed 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. A patient may be involved in therapy, or may focus on acquiring a reliable support system. Patients should maintain a healthy lifestyle with proper diet, exercise, and rest, to ease symptoms, reduce stress, and improve quality of life.
