Chronic skin diseases, depression, self-esteem and body image among adolescents in Oslo

Negative self-evaluation is central in the maintenance of depression, and low self-esteem among depressed individuals is described with experienced feelings of inadequacy, inferiority, worthlessness and incompetence. Self-esteem related to body image is s alient among adolescents especially females. The experienced body image is disturbed when the individual is depressed or suffers from a disfiguring disease like on a visual part of the body. It has been shown among adults that chronic skin diseases are co mmon in the community (25%) and highly associated with psychosocial factors. Little is known about these issues among adolescents. The following research questions are raised and all questions focus on gender and ethnic differences: How prevalent are comm on chronic skin diseases, like psoriasis, eczema and acne? How strong is the association between common chronic skin diseases, depression, self-esteem and disturbed body image? Is the visibility an explanatory factor for disturbed body image? The method used to answer these questions is an epidemiological population-based study carried in 2004 and conducted by the Institute of General Practice and Preventive Medicine, University of Oslo, and the Norwegian Institute of Public Health. A questionnaire has been answered by all pupils 18-19 years old; 2183 responded and the participating rate was 91%. Information was collected on psycho-social factors, well- being, self reported health and life style. Approval was given by the Regional Committee for Medical Research Ethics and the Norwegian Data Inspectorate. This project represents an opportunity to build up and strengthen research in Norway on adolescence with an active cooperation with colleagues both nationally and internationally. This project aims to e xplore the association of somatic disease and mental health. It is a contribution to understand the needs of this age group in order to organize adequate health care, as well as to target prevention strategies.