Benjamin Ungar, MD, Director of the Alopecia Center of Excellence at Mount Sinai, examines a patient.
Being diagnosed with alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition that affects millions of people in the United States, brings more that the physical challenges of hair loss. Your emotional state can be greatly influenced by the disease progression.
“The emotional toll of alopecia areata can be devastating, but there are strategies that can help you remain positive, manage your symptoms, and thrive,” says Emma Guttman, MD, PhD, a highly renowned expert in alopecia and other inflammatory skin diseases, and the Waldman Professor of Dermatology and Clinical Immunology, and System Chair of the Kimberly and Eric J. Waldman Department of Dermatology, at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
For those who may be facing these challenges, Benjamin Ungar, MD, Director of the Alopecia Center of Excellence at Mount Sinai, offers five strategies to help you cope.
Learn about new treatments
Most importantly, keep hope alive by learning about new treatments in the pipeline for alopecia areata. Ask your dermatologist about newly approved and potential future treatments or get involved in clinical trials. Mount Sinai has two clinical trials enrolling adults and several more starting later in 2023 for adults and children with alopecia areata: one with Dupixent (dupilumab), a drug administered by injection, and Sotyktu (deucravacitinib), a pill. Contact your dermatologist or email our Clinical Research Program Director, Giselle Singer at giselle.singer@mssm.edu to see if you qualify for either trial.
Reduce and manage stress
Stress is a part of everyday life, and it can affect the cycles of hair loss and regrowth. Many people find that stress can contribute to worsening alopecia. Making healthy living habits a priority can help to relieve stress. Manage your stress with daily exercise, yoga, or daily meditative practice. Get at least seven to eight hours of sleep a night. Turn off notifications on your phone and other electronic devices when you are not working to help you disconnect and recharge. Learn to say no to unnecessary commitments and to create boundaries giving you the space for relaxation and self-care.
Be creative with accessories to build confidence
Stylish hats, scarves, or good quality wigs can express your creativity and boost your confidence as well as protect bare skin from the elements. Dealing with hair loss does not preclude looking and feeling your best.
Find support.
You are not alone. There are many support groups that can help you connect with other people who are dealing with the same challenges you are facing. These groups can help you manage your feelings, provide a supportive network, and build your self-esteem to help you cope with the challenges ahead.
Seek help
Seek help from a professional counselor or therapist. If you are struggling, consider reaching out to a professional who can help treat anxiety or depression by working with you to develop coping strategies specific to your experience.