New Study Links Eczema Severity, Stigma, and Suicidal Thoughts

A comprehensive international study presented at the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) Congress 2025 has revealed a disturbing connection between the severity of atopic eczema (AE), stigma, and suicidal ideation in adults. The research, known as the “Scars of Life” study, surveyed 30,801 adults across 27 countries in 2024, highlighting the significant mental health challenges faced by those living with this chronic skin condition.

Among the participants, 15,223 adults had physician-confirmed current AE, while 7,968 adults without the condition served as a control group. The findings indicate that 13.2% of adults with AE reported experiencing suicidal thoughts, compared to 8.5% of the control group. This study is one of the largest to examine the link between AE and suicidal ideation, emphasizing the mental health burden associated with this prevalent condition.

Key Findings on Eczema and Mental Health

Atopic eczema affects over 200 million people globally and is characterized by recurring dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. The research underscores that the implications of AE extend beyond physical symptoms, often leading to increased levels of anxiety, depression, and social stigma. The study categorized participants based on the age of onset—childhood, adolescence, or adulthood—and assessed various factors, including sociodemographic information, severity of itch and skin pain, and experiences of skin-related stigmatization.

The results revealed that all subgroups of adults with AE had higher odds of suicidal ideation than the control group. Notably, younger adults, especially those under 30 years old, were more likely to report suicidal thoughts (odds ratio: 1.6). Additionally, individuals with obesity also faced increased risks (odds ratio: 1.29). The severity of the condition played a critical role; those with moderate-to-severe AE had their odds of experiencing suicidal thoughts doubled (odds ratio: 2.01).

Psychosocial factors, including stigmatization and sleep disorders, were also highlighted. Participants reporting suicidal thoughts encountered higher levels of stigma and experienced more sleep-related issues, particularly mixed insomnia, which was significantly associated with suicidal ideation (odds ratio: 1.78).

Implications for Healthcare Professionals

Dr. Delphine Kerob, a consultant dermatologist at Saint Louis Hospital and one of the lead researchers, emphasized the importance of these findings. She stated, “These findings reveal a critical insight from our large-scale study, which seeks to uncover the hidden, long-term impact of living with common inflammatory skin conditions such as atopic eczema.” Dr. Kerob pointed out that the mental health impacts of AE are often overlooked by healthcare professionals, despite the serious concerns associated with suicidal thoughts.

The study aims to help healthcare professionals recognize and address the challenges faced by individuals with AE more effectively, ultimately supporting their overall well-being.

Looking to the future, Dr. Kerob noted that ongoing analyses from the “Scars of Life” study will further explore why rates of suicidal ideation vary across different countries, potentially revealing significant cultural differences in the perception and management of atopic eczema.

This research underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to treating atopic eczema, addressing both its physical and mental health ramifications.