Humans need community. This applies to every single human - yes, even the most introverted among us! As a species, we evolved to be dependent on others, because it increased our chances of survival. If a member of your community noticed an enemy approaching and warned you, you were better off. We survived through the help of others.
In the present day, we aren’t dependent on social relationships in the same way. Instead, we lean on others for emotional support. Our family, friends, and peers give us a sense of belonging. They keep us from being lonely.
However, when we have certain experiences, we can feel isolated even from those closest to us. Medical issues can leave us feeling alone if no one around us can relate.
Alopecia is one of those experiences that can feel lonely. Despite it being so common, it’s still so taboo to discuss hair loss, especially for women. The stigma around it can bring an undeserved feeling of shame.
Alopecia is a bit of an umbrella medical term for hair loss. It covers several types of the condition. Androgenic alopecia is a permanent hair loss caused by genetics.
Cicatricial alopecia is also permanent and caused by certain skin conditions. Alopecia areata is actually classified as an autoimmune condition. It can also lead to itching and anxiety.
There’s even traction alopecia. This isn’t caused by any genetically or medically, but instead of damage caused by certain hairstyles.
Whatever the cause of alopecia, so many people feel embarrassed to have it. Listen, you don’t to be ashamed. You aren’t alone. Over 6 million people in the United States experience alopecia. That number reaches over 150 million in the whole world.
If you don’t happen to know any of those 150 million people personally, you can meet some of them online.
There is an entire organization dedicated to supporting those with alopecia. The National Alopecia Areata Foundation or NAAF, hosts support group meetings all over the world. You can check their events page to find a meeting close to you. If there isn’t one near, you can request information on becoming a support group leader for your area!
Wigs.com was honored to visit with Jessica, creator of Jessica's Wig Support Facebook page. She shared with us how her personal hair loss journey turned into a passionate mission to create a supportive online community. We love her positive and empowering message.
Of course, we have our own little community of wig wearers here at Wigs.com. We may be biased, but we think our members are the kindest and coolest people you’ll meet on the internet.
If you’re on social media (and who isn’t?), you’ll find loads of support there as well. Facebook groups have been around forever but recently have become the best feature on the entire site. In thousands of groups, people “meet” and discuss every topic. Search “alopecia” in groups and see if they are any hair loss communities that catch your eye!
For the visually inclined, there’s Instagram and Tik Tok. If you want a dose of feel-good on your feed, check out hashtags like #AlopeciaSupport or #AlopeciaUniversalis or just simply #Alopecia.