If your skin condition is affecting your mental health, do you know where to turn? Here are some places to start:

• Ask your GP or dermatologist if there are any local services that offer psychological support. For example, talking therapies, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or counselling.

• Regional and national psychodermatology services exist if you can’t find something suitable locally. 

• In some areas you can self-refer to an NHS service called Let’s Talk IAPT.

• If you aren’t getting the access to the services you need, you can ask your GP or dermatologist to refer you for a second opinion. 

• Make sure that you access information from credible sources such as the NHS or trusted charities relevant to your specific skin condition. 

• Avoid trawling through search engines that may have sponsored or unregulated advice that can be expensive.

• Be careful about following ‘experts’ on social media, ensure you are taking advice from a legitimate health care professional. You can check the General Medical Council’s register for GP’s and Consultant Dermatologists, the Health & Care Professions Council register for Psychologists, and the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy register for Counsellors and Psychotherapists. 

Remember! The important thing is to reach out to someone, not to suffer in silence. Help is out there. 

Helpful links: