Recession is skin deep in Europe

YOUR bank balance may not be the only thing to be suffering as a result of the recession.

Nine out of 10 dermatologists claim increased stress levels since the onset of the credit crunch have triggered a rise in skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and acne.

A survey of 105 doctors and nurses, carried out by the British Association of Dermatologists’, found 41% had seen a noticeable increase in stress-related break-outs.

Moreover, 5% cited a ‘huge’ increase with almost half seeing a slight increase.

With the distress of skin conditions leading one in six sufferers to self-harm and some to even contemplate suicide, the British Skin Foundation has stressed the importance of addressing any underlying emotional problems that trigger physical symptoms.

“The recession brings with it a set of problems that add further stress and misery to the millions that live with a skin disease,” said BSF member Bevis Man.