Authors: Purvis, Diana; Robinson, Elizabeth¹; Merry, Sally²; Watson, Peter³

Source: Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health, Volume 42, Number 12, December 2006 , pp. 793-796(4)

Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell

Abstract:

Aim: 

To examine the associations between acne and depressive symptoms, anxiety and suicidal behaviours. Methods: 

This was a secondary analysis of a cross-sectional survey -`Youth2000' (New Zealand national survey of youth health). A total of 9567 secondary school students aged 12-18 years participated in the survey. The main outcome measures were self-reported acne, depressive symptoms (Reynolds Adolescent Depression Scale > 77), anxiety (Anxiety Disorder Index from Multidimensional Anxiety Scale for Children) and self-reported suicide attempts. Results: 

`Problem acne' was associated with an increased probability of depressive symptoms, odds ratio 2.04 (95% confidence interval 1.70-2.45); anxiety, odds ratio 2.3 (1.74-3.00); and suicide attempts, odds ratio 1.83 (1.51-2.22) in a logistic model that included age, gender, ethnicity, school decile and socio-economic status. The association of acne with suicide attempts remained after controlling for depressive symptoms and anxiety, odds ratio 1.50 (1.21-1.86). Conclusion: 

Young people presenting with acne are at increased risk of depression, anxiety and suicide attempts. Attention should be paid to their mental health, and the importance of asking directly regarding suicide is emphasised.

Keywords: acne vulgaris; adolescence; anxiety; depression; suicide attempt

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1440-1754.2006.00979.x

Affiliations: 1: School of Population Health, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, 2: Department of Psychological Medicine and 3: Adolescent Health Research Group, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand

Publication date: 2006-12-01

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