Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease that can have both a physical and mental impact on individual lives. Approximately 150 million people will develop alopecia in their lifetime and many will struggle with mental health as a result.
On Bell Let’s Talk Day, CANAAF joins the fight against the stigma surrounding mental illness.
Use the hashtags #CanaafAware and #BellLetsTalk on social media to spread the word!
Here are 3 things that you can do for someone with alopecia areata:
Learn about it. Talk about it.
It is often underestimated how alopecia can affect a person’s mental wellness. When you approach someone with alopecia, put yourself in their shoes and imagine what impact your actions can have on them. Staring can often make a person feel uncomfortable in their own skin, as well as assuming the cause of hair loss. By starting an open conversation around alopecia you are helping to:
– Raise awareness
– Create a community
– Relieve stress
– Reduce isolation
– Celebrate individuality
A small act of showing you care can make a big difference!
Offer to listen.
Going through the different stages of alopecia can be difficult for others to relate to, but everyone knows the feeling of being unwell. A show of kindness and an offer to chat may be just what someone needs at that moment. When talking to an individual with alopecia, avoid using these expressions:
“It’s just hair”
“At least it’s not cancer”
“You are too stressed”
“I’m sure your hair will grow back someday”
Instead, be kind, caring and supportive and ask them how you can help.
Stay Connected.
Follow @canaaf on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to keep updated on CANAAF events, new research and ways that you can help. You can also visit https://www.canaaf.org/about-alopecia-areata/ to learn more about this autoimmune disease and sign up to receive e-newsletters directly to your inbox.
