Mental Health Figures in Rare Skin Diseases
In June 2026, RareBarometer, Eurordis’ polling organisation, published the results of the survey conducted in 17 European countries from 11th September to 14th December 2025. 130 people representing 13 rare skin diseases responded.
The figures speak for themselves:
- 7 out of 10 people living with a rare skin disease and their families report poor mental health.
- 50% report moderate to severe depressive symptoms (8 times more than the European population (6.1%))
- 44% report significant clinical symptoms of anxiety (8 times more than the European population (5.4%))
- 39% feel lonely (4 to 20 times more than the European population (2 to 10%))
- 37% report suicidal thoughts in the last 6 months (6 to 12 times more than the European population (3 to 6%))
- 48% report at least 2 severe mental health difficulties
- 28% report at least 3 severe mental health difficulties
- 14% report at least 4 severe mental health difficulties
- While 76% say they need professional psychological support, only 46% receive it
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- 25% of a general practitioner or nurse taken care of
- 21% of a professional not reimbursed, or paid by themselves (psychologist, psychotherapist, psychiatrist)
- 17% of a professional fully or partially reimbursed (psychologist, psychotherapist, psychiatrist)
- 11% of a Centre of Expertise (multidisciplinary care team specialising in rare or undiagnosed diseases)
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