People living with chronic prurigo — also known as prurigo nodularis — experience higher levels of depression, anxiety, stress, stigma, and body dysmorphia compared to people without the condition, according to a recent study.

The study included 127 adults with chronic prurigo and 2,808 people without the condition. Researchers found that people with chronic prurigo were:

• Twice as likely to experience combined symptoms of depression and anxiety
• More than seven times as likely to have body dysmorphic concerns, meaning they were preoccupied with perceived flaws in their appearance, often related to their skin, even if others didn’t see those imperfections the same way
• Significantly more likely to report high levels of stress and feelings of stigmatization, meaning they felt judged or treated differently because of their visible symptoms

Researchers identified younger age, lower income, and higher itch intensity as key factors for predicting if a person experienced psychological symptoms. In particular, people who were younger or dissatisfied with their appearance were more likely to have body dysmorphia, while those with intense itch or under financial strain were more likely to experience anxiety or depression.

Easing the Emotional Impact of Prurigo Nodularis

Living with chronic prurigo means more than dealing with persistent itch — it can affect your sleep, concentration, and emotional well-being. The cycle of itching and scratching can lead to visible skin changes that may cause you to feel self-conscious or stigmatized in social settings. These experiences can take a toll on your mental health.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you can take steps such as these:

• Talk with your healthcare provider or dermatologist about ways to manage your itching and improve your quality of life.
• Reach out to a mental health professional if you feel anxious, depressed, or stressed about your appearance.
• Connect with others who understand. Hearing from people facing similar challenges can make a difference.

Learn five techniques for practicing self-care when living with prurigo nodularis.

Connect With Others

On MyPrurigoTeam, the social network for people living with chronic prurigo, members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with the condition.

Have you noticed an impact on your mental health due to chronic prurigo? How do you cope with stress or stigma? Share your experience in the comments below, start a conversation on your Activities page, or connect with others in Groups.