Eczema & Mental Health

Introduction 

The human body is a never-ending mystery. By looking at the very topic of this article, you might be astonished that how can be a mere skin disorder be related to something as grave as mental health. But you will be surprised to know that there is a linearly progressive positive correlation between these two. 

The association between eczema and mental health is like a relentless positive loop. The more you suffer from eczema, the more you suffer from stress and anxiety. And the more is your stress and anxiety, the greater is the flare-up of your eczema. 

Physiological association between mental health and eczema

Let us explore the physiological link betweeneczema and mental health. When you are experiencing a skin disease as severe as eczema, there is continuous itching and rashes that creates an internal environment of stress for the body. 

The body elicits response against these stress conditions by secretion of the stress hormones of the body. The primary stress hormones are cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones gear up the inflammation in the skin by preliminarily reducing the immune system.

 These flight-fight hormones suppress the immune system of the body and it leads to the outbreak of inflammation. Eczema is not like short-lived rashes or wounds; it is a long-term skin disorder and continues in a vicious cycle with stress and anxiety. 

In scientific terms, eczema is a type of atopic dermatitis. Surveys reveal the fact that a large proportion of the people who are under the shackles of depression are prone to developing atopic dermatitis. 

The solution to your problem 

Now that we have realized what the problem is, let us focus on the fact how to cut the never-ending cycle between derogatory mental health and eczema. 

Basically, if you understand and realize the symptoms of depression it becomes easy to identify the susceptibility towards eczema. 

1. If you are not finding interest in any work off late
2. Not having proper sleep at night
3. Feeling restless always
4. If you find it extremely difficult to concentrate on any activity
5. Lose interest in activities that used to excite you including your hobbies
6. If you feel unenergetic and fatigued always
7. Lastly, if you are having thoughts of committing suicide

Be sure that you are suffering from depression. 

Having frequent mood swings and any of these symptoms indicates that your mental health is not appropriate. Under such circumstances, the incidence of any kind of atopic dermatitis including eczema is extremely high. 

If conditions are such, it is high time that you consult a psychologist or counsellor. Surveys over large population groups have shown that on the improvement of mental health status, the intensity of eczema also diminishes. A medical practitioner can help you to realize the relation betweenmental health and eczema

Resort to mental detoxification 

You can resort to various types of mental detoxification strategies to deal with eczema. These activities include

• Meditation, 
• Practicing yoga 
• Going for refreshing natural walks
• Listen to music
• Lastly, let your hobbies grow. The more you develop the desire for such creative activities, your mind gets diverted from the negative thoughts. 

Now the basic fact is that you cannot get results from practicing these activities just for a day or two. You will have to devote time for these. Over a period of time, you shall be able to feel the difference by yourself. As these are not pharmacological options but simple natural strategies, they will take time to exert their effect

Sleep and eczema 

One of the most profound reasons for developing eczema in relation to mental health is the lack of sleep. Inadequate sleep is great stimulators for the release of stress hormones and we have already discussed how stress hormones can boost eczema. 

Lack of REM sleep has long been cited to suppress the natural immunity of the body and elevate the chances of inflammation. Therefore, you can understand how important it is to have a proper peaceful sleep. Sleepless nights are the outcome of depression and anxiety. Lack of sleep is extremely derogatory for your mental health. 

You must practice healthy sleeping habits to keep away from the stochastic effects of eczema. Relaxation therapy before sleep, listening to your favorite soothing music before going to bed, choosing the correct bed and pillows for sleep, sleeping in a completely dark room can help to make your sleep health better and in turn, safeguard you from eczema.

Diet and exercise

Lastly, diet and exercise are the guards at the door of good health. having a daily exercise schedule of at least 20 minutes cab not only help you to be active and fit but also improve your mental health a lot. Physical exercise also leads to tiredness which can help you to bring around good sleep.

A happy gut is a key to good health. Stop eating food that can excite the body. avoid overeating of oils, spices and junk food. Reform your diet plans to include more of greens and natural food.