Alexithymia and Suicidal Ideation in Iranian Patients With Psoriasis

Abstract

Background: Evidence highlighted the high prevalence of some mental problems among individuals with psoriasis, including alexithymia and suicidal ideation. Objectives: The present study aims to investigate the prevalence and comorbidity of alexithymia and suicidal ideation in individuals with psoriasis in Iran. Materials & Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 patients with psoriasis referred to Razi Dermatology Clinic and Beesat Clinic of hospitals affiliated to Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran, in 2020. Psoriasis was diagnosed by a dermatologist, and the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients were recorded. The Toronto alexithymia scale (TAS-20) and the Beck scale for suicidal ideation (BSSI) were used to assess alexithymia and suicidal thoughts. Results: The mean age of patients was 37.56±10.58 years, and 51% were female. Among patients, 52% had alexithymia, 23% were at high risk of suicide, and 6% were at very high risk of suicide. The moderate severity of psoriasis had a significant association with suicidal thoughts (P<0.05). The TAS-20 score had a significant association with the male gender and younger age, and the BSSI score had a significant association with the psoriasis area (P=0.003). The highest score of BSSI was seen in those with psoriasis in the face and limb/trunk (10±4.36 and 8.56±8.52, respectively). Conclusion: Patients with psoriasis exhibit a significant prevalence of alexithymia and suicidal thoughts. Additionally, younger age and male gender were identified as factors associated with alexithymia in this population.

Keywords

• depression
• mental problems
• psoriasis
• suicide
• alexithymia