Yes, depression and anxiety often occur alongside vitiligo and can greatly affect a person's quality of life. The connection comes from the fact that both the skin and brain develop from the same layer in the embryo, ectoderm, and are influenced by similar neurotransmitters and hormones in the body.

This means that mental health issues can sometimes trigger skin conditions like vitiligo. Many people with vitiligo have experienced significant stress or major life changes, such as moving to a new place or losing a job, 1-2 years before their symptoms began.

A recent study found that people with depression are 4-5 times more likely to develop vitiligo, making depression a significant risk factor for the condition. It also found that people with vitiligo who also have anxiety or depression tend to have worse outcomes from treatment. Another research has also shown that antidepressants, like amitriptyline, might help those who are dealing with both vitiligo and depression. This suggests that managing mental health is a crucial part of treating vitiligo effectively. 

Given these findings, it's becoming more common for doctors to include psychological treatments like cognitive behavior therapy, talk therapy, or support groups as part of the treatment plan for vitiligo. These approaches not only help improve mental health but can also make traditional treatments for vitiligo more effective.

 

Suggested reading: Mental Health and Quality-of-Life Burden Among Vitiligo Patients

Over 40% of people surveyed reported that vitiligo significantly affects their emotional well-being, harming their self-esteem, relationships, and careers. Daily activities such as choosing clothes, attending social events, handshaking, and intimate interactions cause them stress. Around 60% often conceal their condition with makeup or clothing, especially those with more than 5% of their body affected. Additionally, over half of the respondents have recognized mental health issues, with anxiety (30%) and depression (25%) being the most common, particularly noted among patients in India.