Experiences of transition from adolescence to young adulthood in the context of chronic skin conditions: an interpretative phenomenological analysis

Abstract

Background Chronic skin conditions are common in youth. The developmental transition to young adulthood involves social, psychological and physical changes. Adolescents with chronic skin conditions may experience greater challenges than their healthy peers due to the addition of managing and coping with their condition. Objective This study explored experiences of transition from adolescence to adulthood in the context of chronic skin conditions. Method Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven young adults with chronic skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa). An interpretative phenomenological analysis methodological approach was used. Results Six themes were generated: (1) Navigating a difficult medical journey; (2) Managing a chronic skin condition is all-consuming; (3) Living with a chronic skin condition can be physically limiting; (4) Distressed, isolated and abnormal: How my skin makes me feel; (5) What is wrong with you? Experiences of stigma because of my skin; and (6) The resilience journey when living with a chronic skin condition. Conclusions Findings highlight the difficulties experienced by young dermatology patients, particularly during adolescence, including challenges with healthcare providers, mobility disruptions and stigmatisation. Findings offer insight into how young people can be supported during their transition into adulthood, for example, treating skin conditions with a psychodermatological approach.