Abstract
Background: Serious skin conditions, such as psoriasis, eczema, and severe acne, not only affect physical appearance but also have a significant impact on mental health. These conditions are often chronic, visible, and stigmatized, which can lead to psychological co-morbidities such as depression and personality disorders. The emotional burden of living with a skin disorder, combined with the social isolation and negative self-image it can cause, contributes to increased rates of depression among affected individuals. Additionally, personality disorders, particularly avoidant and borderline personality disorders have been found to co-occur with serious skin conditions, further complicating the psychological profile of these patients. The bidirectional relationship between psychological distress and skin conditions is well-documented, with stress often exacerbating skin symptoms, creating a vicious cycle. Understanding and addressing the mental health needs of these patients is crucial for improving overall treatment outcomes and enhancing their quality of life.
Methods: This study included 60 patients with serious skin disorders from the Department of Psychiatry. Patients were assessed for depression using the HDRS and for personality disorders using the MCMI.Results: 83.4% of patients had depression, and 66.6% had personality disorders. Patients with psychological co-morbidities showed poorer treatment outcomes.
Conclusion: Integrating mental health care with dermatological treatment can improve outcomes for patients with serious skin disorders.Key words: Serious skin conditions, depression, personality disorders, psoriasis, eczema, acne, psychological co-morbidities, mental health, treatment outcomes, dermatology, psycho-dermatology.