Having acne as an adult can be even more difficult emotionally than it is physically.

Acne is usually associated with teenagers, so experiencing it as an adult can be upsetting and confusing, and in some cases lead to anxiety and depression. Having chronic acne can affect all areas of life, including your relationships, social situations and work.

When acne is affecting your mental health, it’s important to start a good treatment plan that takes care of your skin, while adopting practices that support you emotionally.

Social withdrawal

The discomfort of having acne can make going out into the world difficult. No matter how severe or mild your acne is, if your skin is obsessively on your mind you’ll feel more self-conscious in social situations.

For some people, even very mild cases can be immensely distressing. So if you’re judging yourself for feeling upset about your skin, be compassionate to yourself.

Wanting to hide away is very common, but this doesn’t mean that cancelling plans is the best solution. Be kind to yourself and remember that you’re going through a healing process with your skin. You’re treating it, which takes time, and that’s okay.

Try having the courage to be vulnerable with friends, let them know how you feel and be open to their care and support. Having supportive friends will help you rebuild your confidence and get back to enjoying your social life.

Acne, mental health and PMS

For women who experience PMS, feelings of anxiety and depression can worsen in the two weeks before their periods. It’s also common for these women to experience more breakouts during this time.

The same hormonal imbalances that cause acne are also responsible for PMS symptoms. So, by addressing the imbalance in your hormones, you will not only tackle your acne but also see an improvement in your emotional wellbeing.

How to work through anxiety and depression from acne

If having acne is affecting your mental health the following steps can help improve your wellbeing.

Step one: Start a good treatment plan

The first step to working through the emotional impact of acne is to start a good treatment plan.

Simply knowing that you are taking control of your skin and moving forward will make a difference. If you need extra support, make an appointment with a certified natural therapist so you can feel confident the treatment plan is right for you.

Step two: Be kind to yourself

You may have some good days and some bad days, but try to remember that acne doesn’t define you or your worth. However you’re feeling, be kind and compassionate to yourself.

Step three: Get support

There are thousands of women online who are going through the same thing as you and feeling part of a supportive community can help if you’re struggling. There are many acne forums as well as a supportive skin positivity movement on social media that can help you reframe how you feel about your skin.

Your mental health is important, so if you’re having feelings of despair about your skin you should speak to a counsellor or therapist who can help.