Psychological impact and response after diagnosis of vitiligo

Statistics show that patients with skin disorders, and especially those affected by vitiligo, have 20% more psychiatric disorders than the rest of the population.

The disorders that most affect the mood of patients are acne, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, alopecia, vitiligo or angiomas, specifically because they occur in the most visible areas of the body: the face and the hands.

In the case of vitiligo, an important fact is that most diagnoses are made before the age of 30, a very sensitive stage of life from an emotional point of view.

It should also be remembered that the treatment of vitiligo, just like that of psoriasis and other skin conditions, is long and complex, and that each patient responds differently to the various treatment options.

Perseverance and the combination of different treatments (sensitisers, phototherapy, pigmentation regulators, etc.) are key to achieving results and many patients are put off soon after starting treatment.

The condition may be linked to self-esteem issues, difficulties with social relationships and anxiety because of the uncertainty about the evolution and treatment of vitiligo. And it is precisely this anxiety and stress that aggravates the condition.

On this note, we would like to mention the guidelines published by the Spanish Association of Vitiligo Patients (ASPAVIT), which underline the importance of avoiding stress and opting for counselling if deemed necessary.

ASPAVIT Guidelines

• Accept your condition.
• Opt for counselling if necessary
• Avoid stress.
• Do some type of physical activity appropriate to your age.
• Choose your dermatologist well.
• Follow your prescribed treatment.
• Avoid miracle treatments.
• Do not stop the treatment. Persevere.
• Avoid self-medication.
• Eat healthily.
• Consume antioxidants (tomatoes, beetroot, carrots…).
• If you opt for phototherapy, visit a specialist dermatologist.
• Remember: not all treatments have the same results in all patients.