As teens navigate the emotional ups and downs of adolescence, their skin often becomes an unwitting battlefield. But did you know the connection between mental and skin health is more than skin-deep?
The first signs of stress often appear on the skin. Understanding this intricate relationship is crucial in helping teens maintain both their mental and physical well-being.
At times like this, parents should create a supportive environment where teens can develop a positive self-image beyond appearances.
Effect on Self-Esteem:
The influence of skin health on self-esteem significantly impacts adolescent mental health. Understanding this intricate relationship is crucial in helping teens maintain both their mental and physical well-being. Parents can support their teens by creating a safe space for them to discuss their feelings and encouraging them to look beyond their skin’s surface. This approach helps motivate teens to feel comfortable and confident in their skin.
Social Pressure and Anxiety:
Adolescents are highly influenced by peer pressure and beauty standards often promoted by the media. For teens, this pressure can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to appearance. To address this issue, it’s important to educate early on the mindful use of social media and to understand that not everything online is real
Skin Picking Disorder:
Skin problems can have a greater negative influence on a teen’s mental health than just social anxiety and low self-esteem. Skin-picking disorder, or dermatillomania, is a condition in which a person picks at their skin obsessively, frequently to the point of injury. Stress, anxiety, or a sense of being in the dark may lead to this behaviour. Teens who suffer from skin disorders such as acne may be at a higher risk of developing this disorder because they may pick at imperfections to make them look better.
Role of Skincare Routines:
Encouraging healthy skincare routines can help teens feel more in control of their skin health, potentially reducing anxiety. A consistent routine tailored to their needs can also improve skin conditions, leading to a boost in confidence and self-esteem.
Tips for Parents:
l Provide a secure environment where teenagers can discuss their emotional health and skin issues. Building confidence and self-esteem is vital so they can embrace their individuality, make informed choices about their well-being, and develop a positive self-image.
l Encourage teens to follow healthy skincare routines and avoid popping or squeezing pimples. It’s also important to teach them that this is a part of life and that there are avenues they can explore to be more comfortable in their skin.
l Stress is another factor that contributes to both physical and mental health. Promote stress-relieving pursuits for the teen, such as physical activity, meditation, and interest-based hobbies.
l Encourage a healthy body image and self-esteem by highlighting their strengths and attributes. Boosting their self-esteem is the first step in ensuring that they can see that they are more than just the surface of their skin
(The author, Prasanna Vasanadu, is a Parent Educator and Founder of Tikitoro.)