Hair loss can have a profound effect on your self-esteem, and it can be hard to deal with at times. Some people seek out different solutions such as flying to Turkey for hair transplants, and some try every different natural remedy there is. However, it can be tricky to get back to the person you once were when going through such a drastic change. Keep reading and let’s explore the connection between self-esteem and hair loss.
A Change In Who You Are
Your hair might have been one of your favourite things about your appearance and dealing with the loss of it can be tough. When we look in the mirror each day, we know what to expect and are used to getting ready a certain way. However, once you start dealing with thinning hair, or losing it altogether, it can really knock your confidence. Our hair is a part of us, and to some people, losing this is like losing some of themselves.
Hair loss can also symbolise that you’re getting older too, and some people struggle with the signs of aging. While things like wrinkles can be disguised through make-up or reduced by plastic surgery, many people will feel at a complete loss with what to do when their hair begins to fall out. Hair loss can be gradual, or it can happen quite quickly. Either way, it can be difficult to deal with and can drastically reduce your self-esteem.
Anxiety And Depression
Low self-esteem has been linked to anxiety and depression, both of which could occur or be intensified if you suffer from hair loss. The change in your appearance can make you feel self-conscious and more concerned about how others perceive you. This can then cause your anxiety to increase and degrade your self-esteem even further. Some people find that hair loss causes them to feel more depressed than anxious. This can be because it shows that they’re getting older, or they are coping with an illness. If your hair loss is really affecting your mental health, make sure to speak to your doctor and discuss these feelings so you can get the support that you need.
A Loss Of Masculinity Or Femininity
For some women, their hair is a major part of their appearance. You might like getting all dressed up and spending time styling your hair to perfection. But once it’s gone, you may find that you feel a loss of your femininity and your confidence levels drop. Men also can take great pride in their hair. If you’re used to having regular barber visits and getting all the latest gels to style it with, the change can be devastating to your self-esteem. Although it’s perceived as normal for men to lose their hair, it can still make you feel as though you’ve lost a bit of your masculinity.
How To Boost Your Self-Esteem
Hair loss does have a dramatic effect on people’s self-esteem, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. The first thing you need to realise, is that you are worth just as much without your hair as you were with it. Your hair doesn’t define your personality and you can still be the amazing, confident person you were before. Instead of putting all your energy into something that you might not be able to change, channel it into something productive. Try to shift your mind away from what you believe is a negative quality about yourself and focus on all the things you enjoy.
If you’re really don’t feel confident, you could look at trying out wigs or extensions to see if that makes a difference. However, these will only mask your feelings temporarily. You need to work on believing that you’re still a wonderful human being even if you don’t have as much hair. Don’t shy away from social events either! Put yourself out there and enjoy the company of others. You’ll soon realise that you are more than your hair and notice a real boost in your self-esteem.
