Eczema and Mental Health: Understanding the Emotional Toll

Eczema affects millions of people worldwide, and if you or someone you love has it, you know it’s not just about the skin. Constant itchiness, inflammation, and discomfort are daily struggles many face. While we often hear a lot about the physical side of eczema, the emotional impact isn’t talked about nearly enough.

In this post, we explore how eczema can impact mental health and why caring for both your skin and mind is crucial. 

Eczema and Mental Health: The Emotional Struggles

In March 2023, around 1.6 million Australians were estimated to live with eczema, which could likely be much higher.

Living with eczema can be challenging, and for many individuals, the emotional struggles can be just as overwhelming as the physical symptoms. The persistent itching, discomfort, and flare-ups can lead to stress and anxiety, and over time, this can significantly impact mental well-being.

It’s also the visible nature of eczema that can leave individuals feeling self-conscious, leading to lowered self-esteem and sometimes even social isolation. 

Eczema affects more than just the skin – it can also deeply impact how someone feels about themselves.

People with eczema often struggle to cope with the unpredictability of flare-ups. Whether it’s a sudden rash on the face or an all-over body flare-up, these visible symptoms can be deeply distressing. 

It’s heartbreaking to hear how many individuals feel compelled to shy away from social situations because of how their skin appears. The embarrassment and fear of being judged can be overwhelming, leading to feelings of isolation and distress. This emotional struggle not only affects their confidence but can also intensify the symptoms of eczema, creating a challenging cycle that makes it even harder to find relief. 

That’s why it’s so important to recognise this pain and offer support to those navigating these difficulties.

The Link Between Eczema and Anxiety

Anxiety is a common mental health issue for people living with eczema. The constant discomfort caused by itching, along with the uncertainty of when the next flare-up will occur, can contribute to anxiety. 

For many individuals, anxiety can stem from the fear of social situations where their eczema might be visible, such as public events, school, or work. This fear often results in social withdrawal, which can worsen feelings of loneliness and isolation. Even with effective treatment, flare-ups can happen unexpectedly, contributing to increased anxiety for those living with eczema.

Eczema and Depression: The Hidden Struggles

In some cases, the emotional impact of eczema can lead to depression. Chronic pain, poor sleep, and a lack of control over the condition can leave individuals feeling sad, hopeless, and helpless.

Studies have shown adults with atopic dermatitis are up to three times as likely to have depression. The constant discomfort, coupled with the visible signs of eczema, can lower self-esteem and make individuals feel as though their condition defines them.

For children and adolescents, the impact of eczema on mental health can be particularly devastating. School-age children who experience eczema may face bullying or teasing from peers, leading to emotional distress and anxiety. As these young people grow older, they may continue to struggle with self-confidence and body image issues due to their eczema. 

Without proper mental health support, the emotional scars left by eczema can persist into adulthood.

Sleep Disruption and Mental Health

Sleep disruption is another significant way that eczema affects mental health. The constant itching and discomfort caused by eczema can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. 

Beyond Blue states that:

“Sleep and mental health are two sides of the same coin – each influences the other”. 

Lack of sleep can significantly impact mental health, leading to increased feelings of irritability, stress, and anxiety. Not getting enough rest can create a harmful cycle for individuals with eczema; insufficient sleep can worsen eczema symptoms, and flare-ups of eczema can make it more difficult to sleep. This ongoing cycle of poor sleep and worsening eczema can result in heightened frustration, further negatively affecting mental well-being.

Coping Strategies for Managing Eczema and Mental Health

While eczema can significantly impact mental health, there are effective strategies available to help individuals manage both the physical and emotional aspects of the condition. Here are some coping techniques for managing eczema and mental well-being:

1. Seek professional support: If you’re struggling with the mental health impacts of eczema, it’s essential to speak with a healthcare professional. Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), can help individuals manage anxiety and depression caused by chronic skin conditions. A dermatologist or healthcare provider can also help you explore effective treatments to manage eczema and reduce flare-ups.
2. Join support groups: Connecting with others who are going through similar experiences can be incredibly helpful. Online or in-person support groups for people with eczema can provide a safe space to share experiences, seek advice, and find emotional support. The Eczema Association of Australasia (EAA) offers free phone and email support from people who understand what you’re going through. You can connect with others, share your journey, and receive valuable resources to navigate eczema’s physical and emotional challenges.
3. Practice stress-relief techniques: Managing stress is key when dealing with eczema. Techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises can help to reduce anxiety and lower stress levels. When stress is reduced, eczema flare-ups can become less frequent or intense.
4. Establish a skincare routine: A consistent skincare routine can help manage eczema’s physical symptoms and reduce flare-ups. Following your dermatologist’s advice on moisturising, using appropriate treatments, and avoiding irritants can help keep your skin healthier and reduce physical discomfort.
5. Be kind to yourself: Eczema can feel overwhelming, but being compassionate with yourself is essential. It’s okay to take breaks when needed, to seek help when necessary, and to acknowledge that managing eczema is a journey. 

Remember:

Your condition does not define you, and taking steps to care for your mental well-being is just as important as caring for your skin.

The Importance of Holistic Care for Eczema and Mental Health

Living with eczema can be challenging, and it’s important to remember that it’s not just the skin that needs care; it’s also the mind. The emotional toll of eczema can often be overlooked, but it’s just as important to address. By recognising the connection between eczema and mental health, we can empower those affected to seek the support they deserve and break the cycle of physical and emotional discomfort.

If you or someone you love is struggling with the physical and emotional impacts of eczema, know that you’re not alone. Many resources and strategies are available to help you manage both aspects of your condition. Whether you seek professional support, connect with others who understand, practice stress-relief techniques, or establish a consistent skincare routine, every small step makes a difference.

Be kind to yourself throughout the journey, and remember your eczema doesn’t define your worth. We’re here for you, and together, we can create a supportive community that helps everyone live happier, healthier lives. If you or someone you love needs extra support on their eczema journey, please reach out to our support team via help@eczema.org.au or call 1300 300 182.