Alopecia and social anxiety disorder
I’ve just finished reading a recent study about Alopecia by Hunt and McHale entitled “The psychological impact of alopecia”. The study paints a pretty bleak but all to familiar picture for those of us who have lived with Alopecia for any length of time.
Many of the psychological symptoms resembled those of social anxiety disorder and up to 63% of those suffering with Alopecia reported work related problems and around 40% of woman with Alopecia reported marital problems as a direct consequence.
The extent of alopecia is one of the predictors of psychological distress. People with severe hair loss are more likely to experience psychological distress.
Hunt and McHale 2005
However on a more positive note many of us lead perfectly normal lives and in fact Alopecia has proved no barrier to many who at the top of their field. Just look at some of the celebrity role models who have Alopecia for example. I find this incredibly interesting, especially as someone who has suffered from a lack of confidence which related directly to negative experiences as a child with Alopecia.
I have been looking for answers to this question and perhaps more importantly how can we empower ourselves to make the necessary changes in our lives. I’ll be looking in to these issues as this blog evolves and I hope you’ll join me in this journey. I firmly believe anyone can effect change in there life no matter what the obstacles but what we all need most importantly is support.
1 comment November 7th, 2006