Hair loss is something that impacts both men and women around the globe. Though we often look at the physical impacts of hair loss, we often forget to consider the psychological impact of the individual. How do they feel about losing their hair? Have they simply accepted the problem at hand or has it made them stressed and feeling low? It is important that we consider these factors as they are often overlooked by all societies. Though there are many hair loss treatments available at hair loss clinics, these clinics do not look at repairing the psychological damage that is caused by hair loss.
There are many many possible causes of hair loss depending on the person it is impacting. These include genetics, an underactive thyroid, cancer treatments, or medications for other health conditions. No matter the cause of hair loss, for many individuals thinning or loss of hair can cause a loss of self-esteem as well as depression, anxiety, and a range of additional emotional issues. We must address these issues in order to effectively support loved ones as they go through this process.
Why is Hair Loss so Devastating?
Throughout much of human history, luxurious hair has been associated with youth, beauty, and good health. Even the ancient Egyptians made use of tattoos, nails cosmetics, and hair designs to enhance their overall look and feel confident. For many individuals, their hair is what makes them feel beautiful. Once they lose this hair, they can feel as if they have lost their beauty at the same time. With pressure from social media now being stronger than ever before, it is important that we begin to accept hair loss as something that can occur and something that can also make you look beautiful.
How Does Hair Loss Impact Women And Men?
Shelly Friedman, DO, a hair transplant surgeon in Scottsdale, Ariz., states that women often associate their hair with ‘sexuality, sensuality, and beauty’. Women are often portrayed as beautiful for having luscious locks and thick hair in their youth. On the other hand, this is not always the case for men. This is also the case for many men. Although balding is often more common in males around the globe, many men are also impacted by the loss.
When a man or woman loses their hair or it is starting to thin, they believe that they are no longer attractive. For men, the hair also has a number of additional meanings. It can represent their virility. By losing their hair, they may not feel as ‘manly’ as before. A bald spot can be seen as embarrassing for a man, which in many cases will cause them to shave their hair off altogether rather than waiting for the long process of hair loss.
The importance of hair dates back to biblical times, showing its importance in modern cultures. Samson, a Herculean figure states that if he was to lose his hair, he would also lose his strength at the same time.
No matter the cause of your hair loss, it is always important to look at the situation with a positive attitude. This is not something you can control and therefore it is important to focus on what makes you feel great. Remember, you are more important than your hair, this is simply an area of your body that is going through change.
Tips on How to Improve Your Perspective Towards Hair Loss
Here are some of the best ways you can look at the situation in order to improve your perspective and overall feeling towards hair loss.
Remember that hair loss is not life-threatening. Although it is not always pleasant, you are able to live with a bald spot. Hair loss is as challenging as you make it out to be. When you put it into perspective, you begin to realize that the issue is not as apparent as you first believed. Your real friends and family will always love you for yourself- the amount of hair you have really isn’t important. In addition to this, there are many other features that your partner will like about you and therefore your hair isn’t the be-all and end-all.
There are many beauty professionals and hair loss clinic that can help create a hairstyle that suits you. You can undergo a number of treatments to improve your hair and in some cases, it may even come back! This can help you to maintain your current hair, which can boost your overall attitude about the situation.
If you are struggling mentally with your hair loss, it is always a good idea to consider talk therapy. Talking to mental health professionals can help you to overcome the mental rut you find yourself in. You can talk through the problem and understand the reasons behind the way you are feeling. This can help you design coping methods that can improve your life, rather than looking at things from a negative perspective.
The Future Of Hair Loss Treatment
In the future, many pharmaceutical companies will be looking for treatments that can help cure hair loss altogether. Although hair loss or thinning hair may seem awful at the time, these procedures may help to improve your hair and even grow it back. As technology develops, so do your chances of getting a whole new set of hair!