Every single day, dermatologists encounter devastating effects that acne have on their patients' skin but seldom do they know the effects of the condition on their mental health.
People with acne often have to deal with bullying, low self esteem, self sabotage, feeling unattractive and embarrassment.
It’s not surprising then that researchers have found a link between acne and the possibility of one falling into depression or anxiety.
"For these patients with acne, it is more than a skin blemish. It can impose significant mental health concerns and should be taken seriously."
Studies show that the longer acne lasts, the more likely it affects the emotions of the victim.
An analysis of one of the largest electronic medical records databases in the world, researchers found that patients with acne had a significantly increased risk of developing major depression in the first five years after diagnosis.
They found that the risk for major depression was highest within the first year of diagnosis.
This was a 63 per cent higher risk compared to individuals without acne or those that had decreased acne attack.
"This study highlights an important link between skin disease and mental illness. Given the risk of depression was highest in the period right after the first time a patient presented to a physician for acne concerns, it shows just how impactful our skin can be towards our overall mental health" lead author Dr. Isabelle Vallerand said.
The results suggested that doctors monitor mood symptoms in patients with acne and initiate prompt treatment for depression or seek consultation from a psychiatrist when needed.
The study was published in the British Journal of Dermatology.
