Poor mental health may be common among patients with atopic dermatitis, especially during disease flare-ups, according to a press release from the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). In a new survey presented by Loiselle et al at the ACAAI Annual Scientific Meeting, researchers asked 954 patients with atopic dermatitis—36% of whom had mild disease severity—about their mental health and disease care. The researchers found that 72% of patients experienced poor mental health symptoms for 1 to 10 days, and 17% reported experiencing these symptoms for longer than 11 days within the past month. The researchers also noted that 23% of patients who participated in the survey were visiting an allergist as part of their regular care; however, 35% answered that they never brought up their mental health with their allergists and 57% stated that their allergists never asked them about their mental health. In addition to intense itching and dry skin, atopic dermatitis may cause patients to experience sleep disturbances, social impairment, emotional and behavioral issues, and psychological issues such as depression and anxiety—which can negatively impact quality of life. “It’s important for patients and health-care providers to discuss mental health concerns, and to be aware of resources and trained mental health professionals who can help. Working with an allergist … along with a mental health professional can help address the emotional and psychological toll of [atopic dermatitis],” concluded Tamara Hubbard, MA, LCPC, a counselor and member of the ACAAI Public Relations Committee.
November 29, 2023