A new study has found that eczema in children is linked to depression, anxiety and sleep disturbances. Eczema is one of the most common skin conditions in infants and children, and while a lot of cases resolve on their own, some can linger. Eczema comes with itchy, red skin that can be prone to “open” and be sore. It can make it hard to function, and while there are creams on the market that are said to help, they don’t always and this can leave mom wondering what she can do to give her child some comfort.
According to Medical Xpress, the problem may be larger than itchy skin, because a new study has shown that children who have eczema may be prone to mental health struggles as well as sleep disturbances. The study was published in JAMA Dermatology and it can be read in full here.
The study looked at more than 11,000 children and teens and it found that those who had severe eczema were more than two times likely to become clinically depressed when compared to children who do not have eczema. Researchers stated that eczema is a “complex” situation, and it encompasses much more than just irritated skin.
Eczema is incredibly common, about 20% of children experience it, with some outgrowing it and some continuing to deal with it the rest of their lives. The researchers found that those who suffered from depression were typically female and from a higher social class. They were experiencing more episodes of depression and anxiety, and they were also having trouble sleeping. Since getting enough sleep is vital for a person’s mental health, it was a pattern that didn’t seem to be ending. The study highlights the importance of getting resources and support to children and their families.
Eczema can have periods of flare-ups, where it appears worse and if this is visible to the public, it could also play on a child’s mental health. If someone stares at them, because they have an eczema flare up on their face or arms, they can become insecure and self-conscious about it which could be a factor as to why they are also struggling with depression and anxiety. With the toll body image places on young girls, it would also stand to reason why this may impact young girls more than young boys. The final note on this study was that eczema really is about more than just healthy skin, it is a health problem that impacts every aspect of a child’s wellbeing.
Sources: Medical Xpress, JAMA Dermatology