Can Seeing a Therapist Help with Eczema?

The role of therapy in eczema relief

It is important to care for your mental health because emotional well-being can be affected by the symptoms of the disease.

In a recent study, people with eczema who participated in an internet-based therapy program had less frequent eczema symptoms after 12 weeks of therapy. These benefits lasted for as long as a year after the therapy sessions were completed.

“People who only received education on their disease and treatment but didn’t participate in the therapy program were found to have more benefits.”

• Less intense itching.
• The stress levels are lower.
• There are fewer sleep problems.
• Depression levels are lower.

There are many benefits of therapy for people with eczema. Therapists can offer tips for living with the skin condition and ways to avoid scratching.

What to expect from therapy

People with the skin condition may be prescribed a variety of therapies to help manage their mental health.

• Therapy based on the principles ofMindfulness
• cognitive behavioral therapy.
• Anti-anxiety medications are available.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on changing your mindset and way of thinking to prevent unwanted behaviors. Developing strategies to stop scratching may be necessary for people with the skin condition.

Reducing stress can be helped by the help of therapists. These may include exercises.

• “It’s not all about being aware.”
• meditation
• Hypnotherapy.

Some people may prefer internet-based therapy, like the one used in the study. Online therapy was a growing industry that made it easier for people to connect with a therapist from their own homes.

Some people prefer in-person therapy over online sessions. If you are experiencing severe depression or anxiety from your symptoms, your therapist may prefer to start in person.

Other ways to protect your mental health

There are steps you can take to protect your mental health.

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) offers some tips for coping with stress related to eczema.

• Connect with others who have eczema. Having eczema can feel isolating, but it’s actually one of the most common skin conditions. Connecting with others, such as through online support groups, can help boost self-esteem, reduce feelings of isolation, and help you learn new ways to cope with living with eczema.
• Learn effective strategies for stress management. If you find that you’re unable to relax or handle your stress on your own, a therapist can help you identify healthy coping strategies.
• Practice healthy habits. Try to eat nutritious, well-balanced meals, prioritize quality sleep, and try to get regular physical activity. This also means practicing healthy skin habits, such as moisturizing often and using medications prescribed by your dermatologist.
• Connect with an eczema specialist. Dermatologists are experienced at treating eczema, which means their patients often have fewer eczema symptoms and, in turn, eczema-related stress than people treated by non-specialists. If you haven’t already, talk with your regular healthcare professional about how to connect with a dermatologist in your area.

Finding a therapist

If you want to meet with a therapist, you should talk to your dermatologist about someone who has experience with people with eczema. They may be able to give recommendations for someone who already knows how to deal with the unique needs and concerns of living with a chronic skin condition.

You can use an online directory for therapists. You can choose from a variety of specialties, including chronic pain or chronic illness.

Your dermatologist can connect you with support groups and communities that may be able to recommend therapists with experience with the skin condition.

Before your first appointment, you should call your insurance company or the clinic to find out if therapy is covered by your medical plan and what the costs will be.

The takeaway

Mental health and skin symptoms in eczema are related. Stress can make the symptoms of eczema worse. This can cause physical and emotional distress that can cause low self-esteem and mental health concerns.

Research shows that people with eczema can benefit from seeing a therapist who can help them develop healthy strategies for dealing with stress and relieve symptoms of the disease.

If you find that you are having intrusive or negative thoughts about your eczema, your dermatologist can help connect you with a therapist who understands your needs.