Dermatologists Should Screen for Depression

Depression is common in modern society. It is real and treatable. If left untreated, it affects more than just one’s mental health. Depression affects our relationships with others, our ability to learn and work, and - physicians needs to understand this - depression affects their patients’ ability to stick with treatment plans.

Research has found that about 30% of all dermatology patients also suffers from a mental health disorder. Other researchers have shown how important screening for depression is for acne, eczema, and psoriasis patients. This is not surprising, as so much of how we feel about ourselves is tied to how we look or or how others see us, especially in teens and young adults.

We recently advocated for dermatologists to screen for depression using PROs in their clinics. Patients who have a PRO score concerning for depression can then be referred to a primary care physician or mental health expert to discuss treatment options, including counseling and medication. This not only helps the patients get the mental health help they need, but also helps them stick with a treatment plan that will help get their skin better as well.