If you've noticed your acne worsen or your face becomes paler during stressful times , you've probably already gained some insight into the relationship between skin and psychology . Because, as you know, the answer to questions like " Does sadness damage the skin? " is mostly yes. Certain conditions affecting mental health also have an impact on the appearance of our skin. Psychodermatology, therefore, focuses on the ability to control the skin both physically and mentally. So, keep reading to open a new chapter in your understanding of the relationship between skin and mental health !
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Psychodermatology is an approach that helps treat skin problems by addressing the interaction between the skin and the mind. As is known, psychiatry focuses on internal – or invisible – problems, while dermatology deals with visible problems. The combination of these two important disciplines results in psychodermatology, an effective treatment method for skin problems.
What are the classifications of psychodermatology?
Psychodermatology examines the relationship between skin and mental health under three main headings. You can examine these in detail below.
Skin Disorders Caused by Stress
As is known, a stressful life cycle can cause individuals to experience minor and major health problems. In particular, stress can lead to problems such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and hair loss in people prone to skin conditions. These problems can further increase individuals' stress levels.
Potentially Stigmatizing Skin Disorders
Skin conditions such as alopecia areata and vitiligo , whether congenital or acquired, may not harm overall health, but they can lead to individuals being subjected to a type of bullying called skin shaming . This situation, especially in childhood and early adolescence, can cause individuals to feel bad about themselves and become isolated from society.
Skin Disorders Arising from Mental Health Problems
Anxiety, body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), and trichotillomania (an intense urge to pull out one's own hair) are often rooted in significant mental health issues. Individuals may engage in skin-picking and hair-pulling due to various thoughts or feelings. Psychodermatology focuses on individuals within this group.
Who can benefit from psychodermatology?
People who experience intense stress, shame, and guilt because of a skin problem.
Those who feel hopeless, who believe that their skin problem will never go away.
People who are constantly subjected to certain behaviors from others in their private lives or in society (such as being surprised or questioned about their skin condition, etc.)
Those who unintentionally damage their skin or hair
How does psychodermatology work?
Psychodermatology investigates the emotional effects of skin diseases, attempting to identify the triggers behind these conditions. This multidisciplinary field aims to alleviate the physical and mental impact of skin problems on individuals by applying various techniques.
First, the difficult experiences the individual has faced so far are identified, and then efforts are made to minimize the threatening factors. This helps individuals develop mechanisms to cope with the skin problem in question. Therapists and dermatologists collaborate throughout the process.
How to Achieve Balance Between Skin and Mind?
Acceptance and seeking treatment: Accepting skin problems and their underlying causes and seeking treatment is the most important step. It's crucial not to view asking for help/support as negative or demeaning.
Taking time for yourself: Creating time slots to focus on self-care can be beneficial for both physical and mental well-being. It's important not to give up on self-care routines in the first place.
Exercise: Regular exercise can reduce stress levels. This can lead to increased awareness and a better overall feeling.