More support needed for kids and teens

We know skin conditions can impacts a person’s wellbeing and mental health, but researchers have found even greater support is needed when it comes to kids and teenagers.

Researchers looked at 48 studies of children aged under 18 to determine the impact of skin disease on their quality of life, including body image, self-esteem, stigmatisation and risk of suicide.

The skin diseases included acne, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.

The researchers said patients developed a number of coping skills to counteract their negative experiences with their skin conditions.

This included wearing more conservative clothing, with some also missing school or avoiding certain extracurricular activities.

“Those who are unable to develop healthy coping skills are at a greater risk of worsening psychosocial conditions, including depression and anxiety, which may increase their risk of suicidal behaviour,” the researchers said.

They said while doctors understood the importance of treating physical symptoms and mental concerns, more interventions and clear guidelines would help manage the long-term impacts of acne for children and teens.

“Multifaceted treatment focused on controlling physical symptoms along with interventions to build resilience and positive self-perception may equip paediatric patients with dermatologic conditions with the means to maintain a good quality of life and face future challenges,” they concluded.