Contents
and Health
Telogen effluvium is a type of hair loss that can affect people of all ages, genders and backgrounds. It usually occurs after a major physical or emotional stress, and it can have a profound impact on emotional wellbeing. This article will discuss the emotional toll of telogen effluvium, and provide some tips for coping with the condition.
What is Telogen Effluvium?
Telogen effluvium is a condition in which more hair follicles than normal enter the telogen or resting phase of the hair growth cycle. During this phase, the follicles stop producing new hair and shedding of the existing hair increases. In most cases, the shedding phase lasts up to four months and a normal hair growth cycle will then return.
The Emotional Toll of Telogen Effluvium
Hair loss due to telogen effluvium can take an emotional toll on the sufferer. Many feel embarrassed and ashamed by their appearance and this can lead to feelings of isolation. Some even experience anxiety and depression as a result of their hair loss. This emotional impact can be difficult to cope with and can interfere with everyday activities, adding to stress levels, which can ultimately prolong the shedding phase.
Coping Strategies for Telogen Effluvium
While there is no way to cure telogen effluvium, there are some strategies that can help to reduce the emotional impact.
Acceptance
The first step is to accept the condition. Hair loss is a reality that needs to be dealt with, and denying it will prolong the suffering. Self-acceptance can be difficult but can pave the way for coping and improved wellbeing.
Talk To Others
Talking to friends and family can often be a great source of comfort and provide much-needed reassurance. Talking to a counsellor or therapist can also provide valuable insight as to how to better cope with the condition.
Alternative Treatments
Alternative treatments such as scalp massage, meditation and yoga can help to reduce stress levels and increase calmness.
Changing Your Look
A change in hairstyle can often make a huge difference to how someone feels about their appearance. Wigs, hairpieces and extensions can also help restore one’s confidence, and sometimes psychiatrists may even be able to prescribe scalp-thickening products that can help conceal the hair loss.
Seeking Professional Help
It’s important to see a doctor if hair loss is causing considerable distress. It’s possible that the doctor may refer to a trichologist or an endocrinologist, depending on the results of the consultation. A trichologist is a specialist in treating conditions of the hair and scalp, and an endocrinologist may be able to detect signs of an underlying hormonal imbalance, which can also be a factor in hair loss.
The Long-term Health Benefits
Hair loss caused by telogen effluvium affects more than just external appearance. It can also affect mental wellbeing, leading to feelings of low self-esteem and negative body image. Seeking professional advice and developing powerful coping strategies can go a long way in preventing long-term emotional distress and improving overall health.
Keywords: Telogen Effluvium, Hair Loss, Coping Strategies, Emotional Toll, Mental Wellbeing, Trichologist, Endocrinologist.
