Alopecia, an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss, exists in various forms. It attacks the hair follicles on the scalp or the entire body and can strike at any point in a person’s life without warning. It can be tough to deal with at first, as losing a part of yourself isn’t the easiest of situations.
Hair is also a prominent feature of society’s beauty standards. Consequently, hair loss and baldness are largely seen in a negative light by many societies and cultures worldwide. This attitude is so prevalent that individuals with the disorder often feel embarrassment, depression, or anxiety at some point in their lives.
That’s why it’s important to support someone with alopecia. This can be done in simple ways that cost nothing and can even help you connect with them deeper.
Acceptance and Respect
As someone who has alopecia and has told people about wearing wigs, I’ve been the recipient of subtle and not-so-subtle disrespectful remarks and reactions. One of the best things you can do for someone with alopecia is to treat them with respect and kindness. Don’t make condescending statements or strange backhanded compliments. Be mindful, and follow the golden rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
Don’t Give Unsolicited Advice
Each alopecian goes through a unique journey with their skin disorder. Many of us have tested several medical and even natural antidotes to try and heal the condition. Most of the time, if a person has lived with alopecia for years, they have accepted it and are no longer seeking a cure. That’s why giving unsolicited advice on growing their hair back may be unnecessary and possibly offensive to them. If you haven’t talked much before, and this becomes one of the first things you say to them, they may perceive you as judgmental. Unless they ask you for advice, it’s better not to give them suggestions, especially from the get-go.
Be A Listening Ear
When they need to vent their feelings, be that supportive shoulder they can lean on. Listen to their struggles and validate their emotions. Dealing with alopecia can be the most challenging at the onset of the disorder. Simple reassurance about their value and strength can remind them of their positive traits and let go of people’s opinions of them.
Be A Positive and Loving Friend
Alopecians may experience a lot of negative feedback from the world in general. We’re often bombarded with signals that something is wrong with our appearance. Simply being a positive and friendly light in their lives can mean so much. This can look like complimenting, such as telling them how brave they are. Really, anything said or done with kindness and respect will make them feel cherished.
Be Careful About Questions
Not everyone is open about their condition. It’s a very sensitive topic for many alopecians due to the effect on their mental health and life in general. That’s why you want to gauge the individual and try to understand their level of comfortability. Every alopecian feels differently about what they want or don’t want to share, so you want to stray away from personal questions, especially when getting to know this person. If not, it may trigger uncomfortable feelings, which they’ll probably not want to discuss.
As you can see, this illness looks quite simple on the surface but may give way to deeper mental and emotional issues. Additionally, having the condition itself can be very isolating, so receiving kindness, respect, and acceptance from others can leave a meaningful and positive impact on a person’s life.
If you or someone you know is dealing with alopecia, consider resources like the National Alopecia Areata Foundation, where you can learn more about the condition, find support groups, and more.
XOXO,
Your Fashion Bestie
Feature Photo Credit: National Alopecia Areata Foundation
