Itching is a common symptom for a variety of physical and mental health disorders. While it is often the result of skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, it can also be linked to mental health disorders.

Here are some of the most common mental health disorders that can cause itching:.

1. Anxiety Disorders

People with anxiety disorders often experience physical symptoms that can cause itching. These symptoms may include sweating, shivering, tingling, and a crawling sensation on the skin.

The itching may be caused by anxiety-induced changes in blood flow or by the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol. Anxiety-induced itching is usually temporary, and the symptoms typically go away once the anxiety has passed.

2. Depression

Depression is a commonly experienced mental disorder that can cause physical symptoms, including itching. Depression-induced itching may be caused by changes in the nervous system’s functioning that affect the skin’s sensitivity.

This itching may also be the result of stress and hormonal changes caused by depression.

3. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health disorder characterized by intrusive and obsessive thoughts, compulsive behaviors, and anxiety.

People with OCD may experience itching as a result of their compulsive behaviors, such as excessive hand washing or skin picking. In some cases, the itching may be a physical manifestation of the stress and anxiety caused by the disorder.

4. Substance Abuse Disorders

Substance abuse disorders are a group of mental health disorders that involve the use of drugs or alcohol in a way that damages a person’s health or relationships. Itching is a common symptom experienced by people with substance abuse disorders.

The itching may be caused by liver damage or other physical effects of substance abuse, or it may be the result of the anxiety and stress associated with addiction.

5. Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a mental health disorder that affects a person’s ability to think, feel, and behave clearly. People with schizophrenia may experience itching as a result of the medications used to treat the disorder.

These medications can cause dry skin, which can lead to itching and discomfort.

6. Somatoform Disorders

Somatoform disorders are a group of mental health disorders that involve physical symptoms without an underlying medical cause. The symptoms of these disorders may include itching, pain, and other physical sensations.

While the cause of itching in somatoform disorders is not completely understood, it is believed to be the result of the brain’s misinterpretation of sensory information.

7. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health disorder that can develop after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. People with PTSD may experience itching as a result of the stress and anxiety associated with the disorder.

The itching may also be a physical manifestation of other symptoms of PTSD, such as hypervigilance or flashbacks.

8. Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental health disorder that involves cycles of mood swings, ranging from depression to mania. People with bipolar disorder may experience itching as a result of the medications used to manage their symptoms.

These medications can cause dry skin, which can lead to itching and discomfort.

9. Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are a group of mental health disorders that involve a person’s relationship with food and their body image. Itching is a common symptom experienced by people with eating disorders.

The itching may be caused by dry skin as a result of malnutrition or other physical effects of the disorder. The itching can also be a physical manifestation of the anxiety and stress caused by an eating disorder.

10. Generalized Itching Disorder

Generalized itching disorder (GID) is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent and widespread itching. The cause of GID is not yet fully understood, but it is believed to be the result of abnormal functioning in the nervous system.

People with GID may also experience other physical symptoms, such as fatigue and muscle weakness.

Conclusion

Itching can be a symptom of a variety of mental health disorders. Understanding the underlying cause of itching can help people with these disorders get the right treatment for their symptoms.

If you are experiencing itching and suspect that it may be the result of a mental health disorder, it is important to talk to your doctor or a mental health professional about your symptoms.