Evaluating the frequency of anxiety and depression among patients referred to a dermatology outpatient clinic

Aim: Psychiatric comorbidities such as anxiety and depression are frequently observed among dermatologic patients and can significantly impair quality of life. Understanding the frequency and associated factors of these conditions is critical for improving holistic dermatologic care. To evaluate the frequency of anxiety and depression among patients attending a dermatology outpatient clinic and to examine their associations with demographic variables, disease groups, and clinical characteristics.

Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 771 patients referred to the Clinic of Dermatology and Venereal Diseases at Ankara Training and Research Hospital over a 6-month period. Dermatologic diagnoses were categorized into 17 disease groups. All participants completed a sociodemographic questionnaire and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression (HAD) scale. Data were analyzed using SPSS, with significance set at p<0.05.

Results: Anxiety and depression were identified in 21.7% and 38.7% of patients, respectively. Anxiety was significantly more prevalent in females (p=0.002), whereas depression showed no gender difference (p=0.081). Higher rates of anxiety and depression were observed among single individuals, unemployed patients, and those with lower educational attainment (p<0.05). Patients with chronic comorbidities and those with a family history of psychiatric disorders also exhibited significantly elevated rates (p< 0.05). Depression was significantly prevalent among acne patients (33%; p<0.05), while both anxiety and depression were prominent in psoriasis patients, with depression reaching statistical significance (65%; p=0.014).

Conclusion: Anxiety and depression are common among dermatologic outpatients and are influenced by demographic, socioeconomic, and clinical factors. These findings underscore the necessity of incorporating routine psychological assessment and support into dermatologic practice to optimize patient well-being and treatment outcomes.