Publication:

Anxiety and depression in patients with chronic dermatologic diseases in Jordan: a cross-sectional study

Background Skin diseases can deeply affect patients’ mental health and social well-being, often more than what clinical assessments suggest. In the Middle East, data on the psychological burden of these conditions remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate anxiety and depression levels among Jordanian patients with common dermatologic conditions and explore their relationship with disease severity.

Methods A total of 100 patients diagnosed with psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, acne vulgaris, rosacea, and alopecia areata were recruited, with 20 patients representing each condition. Disease severity was assessed using standardized scoring tools, including psoriasis area and severity index (PASI), scoring atopic dermatitis (SCORAD), global acne grading system (GAGS), clinician erythema assessment (CEA), and severity of alopecia tool (SALT). Psychological status was evaluated using the hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS).

Results Psychological symptoms were prevalent across all dermatologic conditions. Patients with mild acne and rosacea demonstrated the highest anxiety scores, while those with severe alopecia areata experienced the highest levels of depression. No direct correlation was observed between disease severity and psychological distress.

Conclusions Chronic dermatologic conditions may be associated with significant psychological distress regardless of their clinical severity. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating mental health assessment into routine dermatologic care.