BLOG #2

Depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the U.S. 

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), having a chronic medical condition puts you at a higher risk of developing depression. It can affect anyone, even someone who least expects it.  A study published in 2022 reported that adults with alopecia areata were 30 to 38% more likely to be diagnosed with depression. 

Depression doesn’t cause the disease, but the disease can cause depression.

People with alopecia areata have reported that they may feel:

• Alone, withdrawn, isolated
• Loss, grief
• Fear that others may find out that they have no hair or are wearing a wig
• Embarrassment, anger
• That they are to blame for their disease
• Guilty that their condition is affecting loved ones

Everyone experiences depression differently. 

• Depression symptoms can also include:
• Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
• Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
• Decreased energy, extreme fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions, “brain fog”
• Difficulty sleeping, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
• Poor or increased appetite, unintended weight loss or gain
• Thoughts of death or suicide, suicide attempts
• Restlessness, irritability
• Persistent physical symptoms
• Self-medicating with alcohol or drugs
• Headaches, body aches, pain throughout the body

If you experience these or any other negative thoughts related to having alopecia areata, know that there is no right or wrong about how you react. Your feelings are valid. 

But, if your feelings negatively affect your quality of life, you can get support. This can be in a group or one-on-one with one of our recommended service providers or someone you trust.