[Mental health in occupational dermatology]

Occupational skin diseases, particularly hand eczema and contact dermatitis (of the hands), are among the most common occupational diseases and can be associated with substantial psychosocial burden. They can impair quality of life, work ability, and mental health.

To present the current state of knowledge on mental health in patients with occupational dermatoses, including relevant psychosocial stressors, comorbidities, and perspectives for care.

Review of the literature on psychological comorbidities, quality of life, stress, and interventions in occupational skin diseases, as well as rehabilitation programs such as tertiary individual prevention (TIP).

Symptoms of anxiety and depression are common in patients with occupational skin diseases. In one study of occupational hand eczema, 20% of patients reported anxiety symptoms and 14% depressive symptoms. Overall, approximately 7.5-24% of dermatoses are associated with obsessive-compulsive symptoms. Psychological comorbidities are linked to reduced quality of life, poorer disease outcomes, and impaired work ability. Stress acts both as a risk factor and a consequence of the disease and is associated with delayed healing and reduced work performance.

Psychological factors play an important role in occupational skin diseases and should be considered in diagnosis and treatment. Interdisciplinary and psychoeducational interventions may improve mental health, disease coping, and occupational participation.