A study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that acne patients experience social, psychological, and emotional ramifications at the same level of those with chronic health problems, such as epilepsy, diabetes, and arthritis. Another recent study from a group of Toronto-based scientists showed a clear link between skin conditions and teenagers and young adults perceived self worth. The study showed that an overwhelming number of teens deal with skin problems (over 85%) and of that group, a majority had feelings ranging from mild depression to severe. Depression and anxiety are more common in those with acne than the general population.Many teenagers ostracize the severity of their acne and said it was a cause of depression and in some cases lead to suicide. In a society that places great emphasis on appearance, acne sufferers often feel uncomfortable or embarrassed. How could mental-health problems actually exacerbate acne?Under stress the growth of nerve fibers near sebaceous glands is stimulated, which in turn contributes to the increased production of sebum - the fatty substance that combines with cell debris and dead skin cells to form those familiar blackheads and pustules. On the other hand people with mental distress tend to eat more junk food (excess salt & fat). Thus leading to building up of a vicious cycle.According to Time Online, in a study done by Statistics Norway, it was found that there is a linear relationship between mood and acne. It was discovered during this study that the more severe the acne was, the worse the depression symptoms were as well.Finding SolutionTaking care of yourself, shunning away depression signals and feeling good about your body, can give you a lift when you need it most.A Pyramid Diet: A lifestyle tracking program, found in 2011 that 42 percent increase in depression risk was found with those consuming fast food. Additionally, the increase in depression risk was just as high with the consumption of baked goods and junk food. Diets high in sugar, refined carbohydrates and trans fats, and low in antioxidants, create systemic inflammation, which manifests itself in your skin in the form of acne, rosacea, or premature aging. Follow a healthy diet based on cereals, fruits and vegetables. To maintain recommended vitamins and minerals levels, a good quality brand name multivitamin will help with acne prevention. Combine this with drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day and making good, healthy dietary food choices.Sleep Well: A lack of a quality sleep can cause stress and even lead to depression. It can cause increased insulin resistance, inflammatory cytokines, weight gain & leave you with low energy and productivity levels during the day. The two main concerns for acne are the increases in insulin resistance and the inflammation. Increased insulin resistance means that your bodies ability to use glucose is reduced. This could lead to acne as well as other health issues such as diabetes. Recognize the fact that you are not getting enough good sleep, if that's the case and them go about making changes in your lifestyle. Going to sleep with make-up on can clog your pores, don't forget to clean your face before retiring. In addition, be sure to throw out old make-up and wash make-up brushes and applicators regularly with soapy water to help keep your skin clear.Exercise, a Must: Indulging in regular exercise improves the blood circulation, and that helps the body receive cleaner oxygen. Sweating while training vigorously carries out the toxins that build up inside your body, thus purifying it. Exercise releases endorphins into the body. Endorphins are neurochemicals that affect a person's mood, making him feel better and more cheerful. That reduces stress, which in turn reduces acne. When you're finished with your workout, get out of clothing wet from perspiration or water sports. Shower and change into dry, clean clothing. And keep your sports gear and equipment clean, too. Dirty headgear, for instance, can irritate forehead areas prone to acne problems. So toss headbands into the washing machine after workout sessions. Avoid the use of makeup when you exercise.Use products labeled "noncomedogenic" or "oil-free.": Shimmering facial colors can contain a flaky mineral called mica that can cause skin irritations and clog pores. Other additives in coloring that can cause similar reactions are coal tar derivatives, carmine and heavy cream in blushes. Use a lip gloss that promotes a matte finish instead of a high gloss for less pore-clogging; note the more the shine, the more then comedogenic content and the more the pores can clog. Beware that eye creams can contain heavier concentrations of moisturizers than regular creams and lotions, meaning they have greater potential to clog pores in the surrounding facial areas.Stay Clean: Keep your hair clean and off your face. Avoid resting your hands or objects such as telephone receivers on your face. And remember that tight-fitting clothes and hats can contribute to acne, especially if you wear these items during workouts or activities where you will be sweating.Consult a Dermatologist: Acne is difficult to treat as no one treatment works for everybody. However, seeking treatment and being aggressive about finding something that works as soon as the acne appears may prevent the lasting psychological effects associated with chronic acne.Quality of life is greatly impacted by acne, Take action, now! Article provided by Women Fitness http://www.womenfitness.net