Researchers find mental health problems link to skin conditions

A study by the pharmaceutical company Typharm, which produces prescription-only therapies, found that 82 percent of patients said it left them without confidence, while others were embarrassed by strangers asking about the condition. More worrisome still, the researchers found that 32 percent of those surveyed said they had considered suicide.

Yet seven in 10 of the 1,000 adults surveyed say they have never been offered counselling.

The study also found evidence of a zip code lottery for available help.

Around four in 10 in London, Sheffield and Birmingham had been referred for advice, but only 18 per cent in Belfast and nine per cent in Leicester had been offered help.

An all-party parliamentary group said: “Mental and physical health are intrinsically linked. There is a wealth of evidence to show that people are at increased risk of poor mental health when living with a chronic skin condition.” .

GP and skin care specialist Dr Nisa Aslam said: “The emotional impact of skin problems can damage all aspects of a patient’s life, from relationships, work, home and family life; there is no part of life that is not affected in some way.

The study showed that 83 percent felt distressed about their condition, 81 percent felt embarrassed and 62 percent heard comments about their skin from strangers.

Dr Aslam added: “Inflammation is a common feature of eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis, and this may, in part, help explain the link between skin symptoms and psychological well-being.

“Untreated eczema and psoriasis can have a serious impact on quality of life, so it’s important to seek information and support and ensure your condition is managed as effectively as possible.”