Hair loss is a part of life for many women that impacts the relationships they have with their family, friends, and colleagues. Many people who haven’t experienced hair loss may not understand the challenge, but friends and family can be great supporters when they understand how and when to help.

•Female Hair Loss

            Women often experience anxiety as a result of their hair loss because of concerns around the judgment of others, leading them to seek conventional and alternative solutions to help their hair grow. However, these solutions may not have worked at all or only worked moderately, potentially increasing a sense of isolation and helplessness.

 •The Psychosocial Problem

            Research has demonstrated that the emotional and mental issues that surface after hair loss may be more impactful than the hair loss itself. According to David H. Kingsley, PhD., research shows that hair loss often results in lowered self-esteem, increased depression and anxiety, perceived lack of self-control, and avoidance of social gatherings. While many respondents experienced these symptoms in different intensities and with varying duration, a problem experienced by many was the lack of support from friends and family.

           

           Feeling loved, validated, and understood by the people in your life is a vital part of keeping yourself happy and healthy in the face of life’s difficulties, including female hair loss.

•Help from Your Support System

            Dr. Kinglsey suggests that family and friends must take the hair loss seriously. Women especially benefit from the unconditional support of their closest friends and family to walk through this difficult time together. Additionally, your physician and hair care consultants can provide encouragement and a listening ear. However, the only way that people in your life will know how to help is if you talk with them about your feelings and tell them the best way to support you.

            You may want to begin a conversation by sharing how your hair loss began by describing the effects it has had on your life. Make sure to discuss the emotional impact of the hair loss, specifically speaking of the effects it has had on your relationships. You can explore your reactions to hair loss by thinking through how the stress has changed across time, in different contexts, and with different people.

            After you share your side of the story it is then the responsibility of your friends and family members to give a voice to their emotions and thoughts. They may have concerns and ideas that they, too, want to talk about concerning your hair loss. Listen empathically to your loved ones and offer support. Once you have both shared your emotions and reactions, there is common ground to move forward.

            At Transitions of Indiana, we understand the impact hair loss can have on a person. That's why we are here to help. Visit our website for more information http://transitionsindy.com/