A new study reveals that people with atopic dermatitis (AD), a chronic skin condition, face a high risk of anxiety and depression. The research shows that poor sleep, frequent doctor visits, low education levels, and other allergic diseases increase this risk. These mental health issues add to the burden of AD and reduce patients’ quality of life.
The study, published in the World Journal of Psychiatry, involved 273 patients treated at a Shanghai hospital from July 2021 to June 2023. Researchers used questionnaires and standardized scales to assess anxiety, depression, disease severity, and life quality.
They found that 24.5% of patients had anxiety symptoms, and 19.8% showed signs of depression, rates much higher than in the general population.
Key factors raising anxiety risk included lower education, more frequent medical visits, sleep problems, and allergic rhinitis. For depression, severe itching, frequent doctor visits, sleep disorders, and asthma were significant contributors.
The study also found that worse skin symptoms and daily life impact were linked to higher anxiety and depression levels.
The researchers emphasized the importance of treating both the physical and mental health aspects of AD. They recommend that doctors screen for psychological symptoms and offer mental health support alongside skin treatments.
This integrated approach could improve overall outcomes and quality of life for AD patients.
However, the study had some limitations, such as a relatively small sample size and reliance on self-reported questionnaires rather than clinical interviews. Despite this, the findings highlight the need for comprehensive care addressing both skin and mental health in people with atopic dermatitis.
