This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at BC chapter.

If I could only choose one word to associate with acne, it would be stress.

Acne can lead to a lot of other unwanted feelings too – frustration, sadness, disappointment, and self-pity. Dr. Steven Feldman, a dermatology professor at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, remarks that, “Acne is such a big problem for people and how they think other people perceive them and how they perceive themselves, that it causes more depression.” It’s important to recognize that acne comes along with more issues than just the discomfort and pain of a pimple.

If you are feeling overwhelmed because of acne and wondering if you are suffering from depression as a result some symptoms to look out for include:

• Frequent crying

• Lack of interest in food and eating

• Changes in mood

• Difficulty sleeping

• Fatigue or lack of energy

• Withdrawing socially from family and friends

• Sudden performance problems at school or work

Although the entire situation can feel out of control, there is help. Dermatologist can work with you for your skin and a therapist can help you deal with the emotional distress associated with acne. While you might first shirk away from the idea of talking to a therapist, therapy is a great way to help improve how you handle your emotions and view yourself. Plus, therapy is not viewed with the same negative connotation it once was.

Even famous actress Diane Kruger remarks on the new attitude towards therapy when interviewed in Marie Claire magazine when she states, “”It’s funny, in Paris (where she has a home), people don’t talk about it. My friends ask, ‘What’s wrong with you?’ But here (in the US) everyone talks about it, and I really like that about America. Therapy’s not about getting help; it’s facilitating yourself to deal better with life in general.” So don’t worry therapy doesn’t have to be the over the top image presented in movies with you uncomfortably propped up on the couch.

In the end, acne doesn’t have to be the overwhelming mess it is for many of us. It is time to take the power back.

Photo Sources

Twitter Photo

https://twitter.com/YikYakApp/status/524024769495064577

Acne Photo

http://humblelore.wordpress.com/2013/05/30/how-after-15-years-i-got-rid-of-my-acne-naturally/

Therapy Photo

http://counselingpensacola.com/pensacola-therapists

We can do it

http://www.vectors1.com/2010/sisters-can-do-it-free-vector-art/

Information Resources

Dr. Steven Feldman