Each individual is very different in terms of the emotional impact that hair loss or a persistent scalp condition has on their life and general well-being.  Some people are quite philosophical and resigned to living with the problem or hoping it will go away. Others put on a brave face or thrive on asking lots of questions and gaining a detailed understanding. Many more feel embarrassed and self-conscious; some feel unattractive and diminished in their relationships at home, at work, out and about and socially. Clients have described to me how they feel they’re losing part of their identity.

 

If the sufferer is a child or young person, these conditions can be devastating for them. We all understand how important it is for them to fit in with their friends and not feel different. We may not like or agree with it, but we acknowledge the immense pressure young people can feel to look good and the influence of social media. Young people are no different to adults in feeling uplifted by taking action, talking to someone is knowledgeable about their condition and who can offer solutions as well as a sympathetic ear.

 

Stress in itself is a common trigger for hair loss. I have clients who’ve experienced a really stressful time in their life and then months later started to notice hair shedding, thinning and the development of hair loss. Trauma not only impacts mental health, but also deeply impacts physiological well-being and overall health, as the person deals not only with the initial traumatic event but also the trauma of losing their hair.

 

Women in particular are often apologetic about being so distressed and emotional, rationalising that it’s “not serious” like cancer, heart disease or dementia for example. They certainly shouldn’t feel this way and should not feel guilty about seeking the advice of their GP or ashamed that it’s “just cosmetic”. It isn’t. These conditions affect your appearance – the face you present to the world and the way you feel about yourself. Scalp conditions too can be intensely itchy, irritating and painful. It may not take your life, but it can take your quality of life. Without exception, clients say that talking to someone who understands is a turning point to getting their life back on track. Not only can I empathise with how they’re feeling but I can tell them what’s happening, why, and give them options and advice about how to tackle it.

 

It is common for people to feel deeply traumatised by hair loss and to worry about what others will think, spend crazy amounts of time analysing their hair in the mirror and attempting to disguise bald or thin patches. It’s normal for people to become stressed and anxious about whether others will notice or stare - or even comment. Please be assured that in by far the greatest number of cases you are worrying unnecessarily. Others are not scrutinizing your hair as you do yourself – often it is not as noticeable as you think. And people are generally kind and supportive – often with a story of their own, or of a friend or family member, to tell. And the good news is, often something can be done about it!

 

Clients tell me that plucking up the courage to make contact is the most significant step in overcoming these often very debilitating concerns that impact so badly on confidence and self-esteem. Suddenly they are able to take control and it feels good.

 

Problems with you hair do not need to take over your life and make you miserable. I will answer your questions and be honest with you about what you are dealing with. Then you can take your next step with confidence and move forward.