Supporting an adult with Alopecia can have a profound impact on their emotional well-being and quality of life. Alopecia is an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss, which can lead to feelings of isolation and self-consciousness. Here’s a guide to help you offer the best support to an adult dealing with this condition.

 

Educate Yourself About Alopecia

Start by understanding Alopecia, its causes, and the different types that adults might experience. This knowledge will enable you to empathise more deeply and provide informed support.

• Causes: Alopecia occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to hair loss.
• Types: There are several types of Alopecia, including Alopecia Areata, Totalis, and Universalis, each varying in severity.
• Treatments: While there’s no definitive cure, treatments such as corticosteroids, topical immunotherapy, and other medical options can help manage symptoms.

Provide Emotional Support

Adults with Alopecia may face unique emotional challenges. Your support can help them navigate these feelings.

• Listen Actively: Be there to listen to their concerns and feelings without trying to fix them.
• Acknowledge Their Emotions: Validate their experiences and emotions, whether they feel frustrated, sad, or anxious.
• Offer Reassurance: Remind them that they are not defined by their hair loss and that you are there to support them.

Help Them Access Resources and Support Networks

Guide them to resources that offer additional support, both emotionally and practically.

• Support Groups: Encourage them to connect with others in similar situations through local or online support groups. See the list of AAAF Support Groups here.
• AAAF Resources: Direct them to the Australia Alopecia Areata Foundation (AAAF) for comprehensive information, support programs, and community events. See the list of AAAF Support Resources and Programs here.
• Mental Health Support: Suggest seeing a mental health professional if they need extra emotional support.

Encourage Involvement in AAAF Programs

AAAF offers various programs that can be particularly beneficial for adults living with Alopecia. Encourage them to take part in these opportunities.

• AAAF Events: Encourage participation in AAAF community events and awareness campaigns. See the list of AAAF events here.
• Grant a Wig for Kids Program: Assist them in exploring wig grants or headwear resources provided by AAAF. Click here for more information here.
• Educational Resources: Recommend they explore AAAF’s educational materials for managing Alopecia in daily life. Click here for more information.

Offer Practical Support

Sometimes, practical help can make a significant difference in their day-to-day life.

• Medical Appointments: Offer to accompany them to doctor visits, helping them process the information and providing emotional support.
• Self-Care Assistance: Help them find suitable hair care products, wigs, scarves, or hats that they feel comfortable with.
• Daily Tasks: Assist with daily tasks if they’re feeling overwhelmed or need a morale boost.

Create a Supportive Environment

Fostering a positive and inclusive environment can make them feel more secure and valued.

• Be Sensitive: Avoid making comments that could be perceived as dismissive or insensitive about their hair loss.
• Celebrate Their Strengths: Focus on their achievements and strengths, not just their appearance.
• Promote Inclusion: Ensure they feel included and respected in social gatherings and family events.

Respect Their Choices and Autonomy

Respect their personal choices in how they choose to manage their condition, whether that’s opting for wigs, going bald, or exploring different treatments.

• Personal Decisions: Support their decisions regarding treatments, whether to wear head coverings, and how they wish to handle social interactions.
• Privacy: Respect their privacy and the extent to which they wish to share their condition with others.

 

Supporting an adult with Alopecia requires empathy, understanding, and practical assistance. By educating yourself, offering emotional support, and encouraging participation in AAAF programs, you can help them navigate this journey with confidence. Your support can make a real difference, helping them feel understood, valued, and empowered.