Abstract:
Acne, also known as acne vulgaris, is a prevalent and chronic dermatological conditionthat has physical effects along with psychological effects and mainly affects young adults worldwide. Acne has significant psychological effects on the social well-being, self-esteem, and social interaction of young adults. Young adults, particularly university students, are at a critical stage of personal and social development, making them highly vulnerable to the emotional and psychological effects of acne.In Pakistan, where cultural norms place significant emphasis on appearance, the psychological effects of acne remain underexplored. This study aims to investigate the prevalence and the psychological effects of acne among young adults at a public sector university in Islamabad, focusing on its impact on mental health, social relationships, and academic performance. A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among students aged 15 to 31 years at a public sector university in Islamabad. A valid questionnaire that is Beck Depression Inventory Questionnairewas used to collect the data on the demographics, acne severity, psychological effects (e.g.self-esteem, anxiety, depression), and coping mechanisms. This research adopts the Quantitative Research Approach and Data was collected using Google Forms and analyzed using SPSS version 20 to determine the association between acne severity and social psychological outcomes. Statistical test such as the chi-square test and descriptive analysis were used.The study revealed a high prevalence of acne, with 41.9% of participants experiencing moderate to severe cases. Psychological effects were substantial, with 68.1% reporting anxiety about their appearance and 70% indicating diminished self-confidence due to acne. Behavioral impacts included social withdrawal (46.9%) and frequent concealment methods (48.1%). Significant associations were observed between embarrassment/self-consciousness and negative self-talk (p<0.001p < 0.001p<0.001), makeup use (p<0.001p < 0.001p<0.001), and changes in social habits (p=0.017p = 0.017p=0.017). Anxiety was strongly associated with low self-esteem.Acne is highly prevalent among young adults in public-sector universities and profoundly impacts their psychological and social well-being. The findings underscore the importance of holistic, integrated interventions that address both the dermatological and psychological dimensions of acne. Public health efforts should focus on reducing stigma, promoting adaptive coping strategies, and improving access to affordable care to enhance the quality of life for affected individuals.
