Acne can have deep psychological effects. What is still more disturbing is that these effects have nothing to do with the severity of the condition in the individual as even mild cases of acne are known to be emotionally devastating.
Psychosomatic Problems Caused By Acne
Acne affects almost 85% of those in their teenage years. These years are extremely important in a teenager’s life as it is during this time that they develop an identity. This is the sole reason why it is very important to explain and understand the social impact of acne.
Teen years are considered the most beautiful years of one’s life. Unfortunately it is also a time when physical beauty holds the utmost importance. This is why most individuals in their puberty face several psychological problems due to their acne. Here is a list of some such common problems:
• These people link their physical appearance with their peer status.
• They lose their self esteem and body image.
• They start avoiding eye contact with others.
• Acne sufferers start growing their hair to cover their acne.
• Girls start wearing heavy cosmetics in order to hide their pimples. They fail to realize that by doing this, they are only worsening the situation.
• Acne on the body parts like the chest and the back also reduces participation in sports. This is not because it affects the sport in any manner but because those afflicted with acne feel humiliated while disrobing in the changing rooms.
• Most acne sufferers slowly start showing withdrawal symptoms which affects their relationships with family and friends.
• Acne sufferers often have to listen to provocative and cruel taunts from their peer group.
• Acne patients find it difficult to form new relationships. This holds especially true if they wish to interact and build relationships with the opposite sex.
• They slowly become shy, secluded and unresponsive.
• They constantly live under the fear of hearing negative comments from those around them.
• Extreme cases also develop social phobia.
• Acne affects the schooling years of the patient as they do not wish to go to school and finally have to deal with poor academic performance.
• Their academic performance can lead to future unemployment.
• The reclusive nature of acne patients leads them to take sick leave from work, thus risking their job.
• Several career options are also ruled out for those who suffer from acne. Options like modeling, acting etc. are not open to them.
• Finally, acne patients are known to be less successful in their jobs due to their lack of confidence.
It would be best to consider medical help at the earliest if you too are experiencing some of the symptoms mentioned above. This would help save you from distress.
Depressed acne sufferers show signs and symptoms like:
• Loss of appetite
• Behavioral problems
• Mood swings
• Crying too often
• Constant feeling of shamefulness and disgrace
• Lethargy
• Severe depression also results in suicidal thoughts and even suicide at times.
There are several successful and affordable treatments for acne. All you need to do is to get in touch with a reliable dermatologist to know the options that would help you get rid of your acne.
Take steps to nurture your skin today so that tomorrow you can lead an acne-free life.