Overview

• A King’s College London survey of 596 adults found that negative perceptions of alopecia contribute more to depression and anxiety than the extent of hair loss.
• Over 80% of participants reported symptoms of anxiety or depression, more than half felt embarrassed about their condition and over one-third experienced disruptions in daily activities.
• Participants with more positive views of their illness exhibited significantly lower anxiety levels, underscoring the role of personal perceptions in mental well-being.
• Researchers are advocating for routine assessment of stigma perceptions and the integration of early psychological support into standard alopecia care.
• The global Alopecia+us study has begun enrolling adolescents and their families to fill knowledge gaps and inform family-centered interventions.