Dermatologic Disorders and Suicidal Behavior
10.22722/KJPM.2025.33.2.54
- Author:
Sudong PARK
1
;
Seongho MIN
;
HeungKyu KIM
;
Jinhee LEE
;
Min-Hyuk KIM
Author Information
1. Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
- Publication Type:Review Articles
- From:Korean Journal of Psychosomatic Medicine
2025;33(2):54-68
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Suicide is a major public health concern worldwide, and various mental and physical illnesses are known to be associated with suicidal behavior. This study aimed to review the literature on the association between dermatological conditions and suicidal behavior—including suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and suicidedeath—and to explore the potential mechanisms by which dermatologic disorders may influence suicidal behav-ior. Numerous studies suggest that major dermatologic disorders such as acne, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and hidradenitis suppurativa may increase the risk of suicidal behavior. However, most of these studies are crosssectional or case-control in design, limiting the ability to draw causal inferences. Moreover, inconsistencies in measurements of suicidal behavior across studies hinder the interpretation of results. Dermatological conditions are hypothesized to affect suicidal behavior through comorbid psychiatric disorders (such as depression and anxiety), sleep disturbances, psychological distress related to appearance, impaired social and occupationalfunctioning, dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, and neuroinflammation. Further researchis needed to validate these proposed mechanisms empirically. For effective suicide prevention in dermatology patients, it is essential not only to treat the skin condition itself but also to assess and support mental health, screen for suicide risk, and ensure collaboration with mental health professionals.
