Psychodermatology is a growing field that focuses on the connection between the mind and skin and aims to heal from the inside out. It deals with the interaction between the mind and the skin and explores how the skin affects the mind and the mind affects the skin. It is a system that integrates medical, therapeutic, physical and spiritual forms of treatment according to the needs of the individual.
While psychiatry focuses on internal invisible disorders, dermatology deals with external and visible diseases. The combination of the two disciplines is a complex interplay between the neuroendocrine and immune systems.
The aim of psychodermatology is to give the individual the ability to control their skin, both physically and psychologically. The stages of the treatment process vary from individual to individual. For example; in some patients, the source of symptoms may be largely psychological factors, while in others it may be physical causes. While some people continue most of the treatment process with psychological methods, some patients progress most of the treatment phase with dermatologic methods.
Accordingly, psychodermatology is a system that combines medical, therapeutic, physical and psychological forms of treatment according to the individual's needs. In addition to various medications and medical procedures, psychodermatology can use many techniques such as psychotherapy, meditation, physical exercises, social skills strengthening exercises.
How does psychodermatology work?
Psychodermatology explores the emotional effects of having a skin condition. It studies what is behind the condition, what triggers it, and what psychological techniques should be used to reduce the symptoms both mentally and physically. The practice aims not only to treat the skin problem, but also to help the individual understand the source of the problem. The main aim of psychodermatology is to
- To identify the difficult experiences that occur
- Minimizing threat factors
- Developing coping mechanisms in case the problem recurs
Once these tools are developed, physical symptoms and acquired habits begin to diminish and disappear. With this, psychodermatology can fill important gaps in the healing process. After a consultation with a specialist, every person who feels ununderstood, seriously underestimated, realizes that this treatment is necessary. Skin diseases can be influenced by other people's perceptions. For example, leaving a consultation feeling supported and well can drastically change the whole experience.
How does the psychodermatology treatment process work?
Most patients who apply to this field for the first time may lack confidence. Nevertheless, in the first session, a detailed examination of the patient's current and past problems is initiated. Some conditions can be identified very clearly, but a more detailed investigation may be required to identify other factors. After returning home, the patient is encouraged to take notes of the experiences they remember. When the stimuli and stressors that are causing the physical problems begin to emerge, the healing from the inside out begins.
A holistic approach is very useful in the treatment process. When dermatologists and therapists collaborate in this treatment process, they can go a long way. Some dermatologists may refer their patients with behavioral problems such as wound plucking and hair plucking to a therapist specialized in this field. Because in such cases, patients often feel insecure and worthless.
Who Can Benefit from Psychodermatology?
Stress and skin problems are like a chicken and egg relationship, both trigger each other. Therefore, the treatment process should be carried out together. When something physically touches the skin, there is an emotional reaction. If the person is stressed at the time, he/she may even get even more angry and impulsive when he/she sees the physical problem. Here are some situations that indicate that you may be a good candidate for psychodermotology;
- Intense stress and embarrassment due to a skin problem
- Feelings of guilt or hopelessness
- Recurring problems in social life or bilateral relationships due to physical insecurities
- History of involuntary behavior with skin or hair
Some people still do not want to see the link between skin conditions and mental health. With psychodermatology, however, it is possible to correct both bad skin conditions and the individual's perception of these problems.
How to Balance Skin and Mind?
Psychological factors such as being stressed, feeling sad, and being anxious are not expressed through the skin in everyone. However, for many people, it plays a role in stimulating skin diseases. Of course, it is important to consult a doctor and continue the necessary medical practices, but by supporting your well-being, you can maintain the balance between your skin and your mind;
- Do not think that you are in a predicament. If you are experiencing psychological difficulties and are struggling to resolve them, do not hesitate to seek support.
- Do not hesitate to seek alternative solutions such as psychotherapy for your skin problems. Sometimes the skin problem you are experiencing may be a symptom of a different disease rather than the problem itself.
- You can spare time for yourself. Find time to take care of your personal care and relax both physically and mentally. Increased fatigue and a weak immune system can also lead to skin problems.
- Exercise regularly. Exercising and sweating reduces stress levels, which in turn removes harmful toxins from the body and reduces the risk of infection.
- Eat a healthy and clean diet. Additives or excess oils in the food you consume can lead to skin problems, especially acne. Eating healthy foods will support your skin and mental health and reduce the risk of skin problems.
- Spend lots of time with your loved ones and don't be afraid to express yourself. Nourishing your soul and mental health also positively affects skin health.
What are the skin diseases that cause psychological symptoms?
Skin problems such as vitiligo, psoriasis or severe acne, which are also reflected in physical appearance, can lead to feelings of shame, anxiety, depression and insecurity. Social media in particular has a significant impact on body and beauty perception. Skin problems can therefore be a serious source of anxiety. Even if such diseases are not life-threatening in a biological sense, they can cause the individual to stay away from life in a psychological sense. In addition, if this situation progresses, it can cause psychiatric diseases such as depression and social phobia, which can lead to important consequences.
Many skin problems, such as eczema, acne and hair loss, have their roots in mood-related causes such as stress. Even a specific condition can be triggered by a psychological cause. In cases where stress increases, the immune system weakens and unexpressed emotional heaviness can manifest itself as skin diseases. This can lead to the formation of a vicious cycle, increasing skin problems trigger anxiety and stress levels; increasing stress and anxiety trigger skin problems again.
What are the Psychiatric Diseases that Present with Skin Disease Symptoms? H3
Chronic hair plucking (trichotillomania), skin plucking (dermatilomania) and delusions of parasitosis indicate an underlying psychiatric problem. These behaviors may be associated with a mental illness, even if on the surface they appear to be a physical condition that manifests itself on the skin. People with these symptoms may need both dermatologic examination and psychological help.