Ever broken up with someone and experienced a sudden outbreak of acne immediately afterward? This "Break-up/Break-out" phenomenon isn't unusual.

Recognizing the "mind-body-skin" connection, some psychology professionals are specializing in an area called "psychodermatology." They may ask their patients to discuss events and feelings associated with specific outbreaks, in an effort to identify stress and emotional factors at the source of their patients' skin problems. Patients may use techniques such as guided relaxation, imaging, and hypnosis to help treat skin disorders caused or worsened by stress.

On the flip side, skin problems can also result in emotional reactions that seriously affect patients' lives. More than just a cosmetic nuisance, acne and other skin problems can affect patients' emotional functioning, producing anxiety, depression, or feelings of low self-esteem. For some, chronic stress and low self-esteem can contribute to serious problems such as depression, drug and alcohol use, and eating disorders. That's why it's important to keep a positive attitude, even-perhaps especially-during bad acne outbreaks.

A positive attitude does more than keep you emotionally healthy. Scientists believe that improving self-esteem, reducing anxiety levels, and avoiding stressful situations may actually boost your body's ability to resist disease. Poor emotional health can weaken your body's immune system, making you more susceptible to viral and bacterial infections-including acne. Stress, anxiety, and depression may also keep you from paying attention to healthy habits.

Of course stress, in small doses, can be a good thing-how else could you get through final exams? But don't let it rule your life. Chronic stress and anxiety can interrupt sleep, diet, and physical activity-all factors that help to keep you and your skin healthy.

Here are some tips from health professionals who specialize in helping teens and young adults keep a healthy "mind-body" connection , :

  • Stay positive by focusing on your strengths-not your weaknesses. Try not to compare yourself to others.
  • Set realistic goals. Once you reach a goal, you can strive to do even better next time.
  • Give yourself credit when you reach a goal and praise yourself when you have done well.
  • Body language says a lot: walk tall, don't slump. Let your body tell the world "I can!"
  • Avoid excess caffeine. Too many diet colas and cappuccinos can increase anxiety and agitation.
  • To-do list stressing you out? If your task list seems overwhelming, do the easy ones first. Then try breaking a large task into smaller, more attainable tasks.
  • Practice positive self-talk. When you catch yourself thinking, "My zits are never going to get better," practice changing the thought to "I'm taking good care of my skin and following my doctor's advice, so my skin will eventually clear up."
  • Take a break! When you feel the pressure or sadness building, try taking a walk, calling a friend, or listening to your favorite song. Even playing with your dog or cat can help break the tension of a stressful day.

It's important to remember that stress is a health issue. If you feel that stress, anxiety, or depression is overwhelming your life, talk to your doctor. He or she can suggest ways to treat your physical symptoms while you work together to improve your emotional health.

 
References: