Many men feel helpless and devastated when they lose their hair. The study described this as an “enormous emotional burden.” Possible manifestations include:
- a diminished sense of confidence and self esteem
- depression
- anxiety
- possible mental disorders
The hair loss study pointed out an interesting phenomenon. In some individuals, male pattern baldness can result from a psychological disorder known as Trichtillomania. This is characterized by an “irresistible urge” to pull out one’s hair.
Link Between Hair Loss and Psychological Issues – Changes In Society’s Perception of Male Attractiveness
Many people realize that that hair loss in men can be stressful. But the results of the Chirite Universitatsmedizin study points to a larger picture that involves an increased sense of value placed on how men look.
Back in the 1930’s a sociologist named William Waller conducted a study on what women wanted from a marriage partner. At this time, the top priorities included financial stability and even the potential for upward economic mobility.
Now that there is greater equality in the workforce between men and women, priorities have shifted. Since more women have the ability to provide for a family, other traits have taken importance. This includes attractiveness, friendship and emotional closeness.
According to another expert, Ashley Mears, the modern man has become more concerned with their body image. She cites an increased number of magazine advertisements targeted at men, starting around the 1980s.
The issue of body image in men doesn’t just involve having a full head of hair. In fact, early this year in January, the Canadian Medical Association Journal published research findings which show that more men are struggling with eating disorders such as bulemia and anorexia. In fact, males comprise 10-15% of patients who are diagnosed with these disorders. The media has coined a new term, Manorexia to describe this.
There are many options that men can utilize feel better about how they look. These include:
(1) cosmetic procedures like hair tranplants
(2) positive lifestyle choices (including appropriate dietary options and exercise)
(3) professional counseling
(4) self help books and information
(5) personal endeavors to focus
Concerns about attractiveness has been stereotyped as a female issue. So many men hide their feelings and are reluctant to seek help. But attempts to find outlets and solutions for personal healing should never be ignored.
Here at Dr U Clinic we have seen many rewarding examples of patients who regained their confidence and self esteem after their hair restoration. Here is a patient with diffuse thinning. His strip procedure caused many of his follicles to go into shock, resulting in more hair loss.
He discusses the effect that his hair loss had on his educational and professional goals. Click here to view his video.
However, we encourage patients to also strive for positive inner growth. The relationship you have with yourself should always be a priority. While we cannot ignore the effect that personal attractiveness has in our society, individuals should work to find a balance between a healthy self concept and how their appearance contributes as a secondary role to this.