Predicting Depression and Anxiety in Vitiligo Patients by Considering Forgiveness, Perfectionism, Anger, and Alexithymia

Background: Vitiligo, a chronic dermatological disorder, is characterized by depigmented patches. Depression and anxiety are considered two major problems in patients with skin disorders, requiring special attention. Various factors can influence the onset of anxiety and depression in these patients. Objectives: The present study aimed to predict depression and anxiety in vitiligo patients by considering forgiveness, perfectionism, anger, and alexithymia. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Dermatology Department of Shahid Yahyanejad Hospital in Babol from May to September 2023. The study population consisted of 119 vitiligo patients whose anxiety, depression, forgiveness, perfectionism, anger, and alexithymia were evaluated using relevant questionnaires. The data were analyzed using statistical tests, including the Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis, Spearman Correlation, and Generalized Linear Model, in SPSS-22. Results: The mean age of the vitiligo patients was 34.17 ± 12.32 years. Their mean scores for depression and anxiety were 4.24 ± 4.90 and 11.50 ± 9.04, respectively. Among the vitiligo patients, 43.6% displayed mild to severe degrees of depression, and 61.3% displayed mild to severe degrees of anxiety. The mean scores for depression and anxiety were significantly higher in women than in men (P < 0.05). There were significant correlations between the mean scores for depression and anxiety (r = 0.58), forgiveness (r = -0.25), perfectionism (r = 0.29), anger (r = 0.30), and alexithymia (r = 0.40). Additionally, the mean scores for anxiety were correlated with forgiveness (r = -0.36), perfectionism (r = 0.36), anger (r = 0.44), and alexithymia (r = 0.53). The results of the Generalized Linear Model analysis revealed that anxiety was the only predictive factor of depression among the subjects. Furthermore, depression, anger, and alexithymia were identified as positive predictors of anxiety, while forgiveness was identified as a negative predictor of anxiety in these patients. Conclusions: The study underscores the importance of addressing psychological factors in the management and treatment of vitiligo patients to improve their overall well-being and quality of life. Further research and interventions targeting these factors may enhance our understanding of the mental health challenges faced by individuals living with vitiligo and aid in developing strategies to better address these challenges.