Hair loss can result in a variety of psychological and emotional issues associated with how we perceive ourselves and how we think other people perceive us. Being a disfigurement that can affect a person’s sense of ones self and identity, hair loss is associated with a high prevalence of psychiatric issues. The condition often triggers great psycho emotional and psychosocial stress, particularly in relation to anxiety, depression, social phobias and personality disorders. Hair loss can cause these psychological disorders, but the disorders themselves can also trigger, or worsen, hair loss which leads to a vicious circle. Many people who experience progressive hair loss are able to accept it but for others, hair loss can have a devastating impact. It is important to understand that the emotional distress occurring with losing one’s hair is legitimate and should be addressed and not brushed aside. Hair loss certainly has an effect on the way people look—the loss of the hairline, for example results in a more aged appearance. This dramatically affects the way people see themselves and often contributes to them losing confidence.
Women, in particular, have been known to have a more difficult time adjusting to hair loss. Women suffered more emotionally and mentally. They are more likely to develop a negative body image due to hair loss when compared to men who were dealing with the same issue.
In terms of dating and relationships, hair loss can have a profound effect on how we perceive ourselves, and how we think we are perceived by others. This is especially true for younger people who are experiencing early hair loss. Some may feel that hair loss signifies the end of youth and desirability, while others feel like they have become less attractive to their partners. As a result, self-esteem takes a major hit. Since our hair is such a prominent feature, it can affect the way we are perceived and how we perform in the workplace. For example, hair loss can have a profound effect on someone who works in front of the camera or someone who is constantly in the public eye. Studies have shown that some employers are unfortunately swayed against hiring people who are balding because they are perceived as being older and is therefore disadvantageous to their company.
Common life altering, psychosocial effects include embarrassment, humiliation, low self-esteem, altered self- and body-image, and less enjoyable social engagements. This has been shown to result in reduced leisure and outdoor activities and decreased social engagements to avoid negative emotions which leads to self-isolation, anxiety and depression. Clinical symptoms, functional behaviour, and emotional stability in addition to anxiety and worry about hair loss all affect a person’s quality of life. These serious psychosocial consequences can cause intense emotional suffering, as well as personal, social and work-related problems.
In medical terms, hair loss can cause antisocial personality disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, generalised anxiety disorder, major depression, adjustment disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder and social phobias. Sometimes, it can even lead to suicidal intent.
