A study of psychiatric morbidity and quality of life in patients attending a dermatology outpatient department at a tertiary care centre in Jammu

Background: Dermatology and psychiatry have an embryonic connection. Dermatological disorders are said to be associated with significant psychological distress and poor quality of life. Our study aims to find out psychiatric morbidity in a treatment seeking population in dermatology outpatient clinic. In addition, quality of life of these patients will be assessed. Methods: 300 outpatients with various dermatological disorders were assessed for their psychiatric morbidity and quality of life. Hindi version of the 12-item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) and Hindi version of the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) were used. Percentages were calculated and results analysed. Results: More females visited the treatment facility. Acne, contact dermatitis and tinea were the commonest diagnosis in the sample. More psychiatric distress and poor quality of life was observed in chronic dermatological conditions like systemic sclerosis, psoriasis, pemphigus and vitiligo. Conclusions: This study has brought forward important connections between dermatological illnesses and psychiatric disorders. A holistic approach in management of dermatological illnesses including psychiatry and dermatology and is therefore warranted.