Women lose their hair for many different reasons. For some, it’s hereditary. For others, it’s medical. Some women lose their hair due to stress and excessive hairstyling. But whatever the reason, you’re not alone. In fact, you’re far from it. According to WebMD, 40% of women will experience some form of hair loss by the time they turn 40.
With so many women in the same boat, several different support groups have been created online to help women navigate the experience. And they can really go a long way toward giving comfort to those who are going through this ordeal.
The Benefits of Support Groups
According to The Mayo Clinic, joining a support group can help reduce stress, anxiety, and feelings of isolation. But you might also look to a support group for emotional benefits. Some people find that a support group can serve as a constant source of hope, inspiration, and empowerment. Support groups even have a lot to offer on the lighter side of things. Have you ever wanted a place to trade style tips or wig recommendations? Have you ever needed a place to vent? Support groups can help with all of this and more. And with so many to choose from, there’s never been a better time to join. Below are just a few online support communities for women’s hair loss.
Support Communities for Women’s Hair Loss
Reddit’s “Ladies with Hair Loss” Group: www.reddit.com/r/FemaleHairLoss/
This online forum boasts over 12,000 members. You can almost think of it like a huge chat room where women can read or participate in discussions and even start threads of their own. The topics really do run the gamut, from members trading wig recommendations, to asking about everyone’s experience with hair regrowth treatments. You’ll also notice women posting photos of their journey, encouraging messages, and of course, creating some pretty hilarious memes. All in all, this Reddit forum is definitely one of the more active support communities and a great place to get started.
Facebook’s “Female Hair Loss and Wellness Community”: www.facebook.com/groups/hairwellness/
This is another bustling community, and since you can’t actually see the content until you join, this one is a little more discrete. The group has almost 4,000 members and collectively has posted about 100 times in the last month. So, this group is going strong, and you’re bound to find plenty of women who are on a similar journey. Visit their page to see if this path feels right for you.
The National Alopecia Areata Foundation: www.naaf.org/events
As you can tell from the name of the group, this one is a lot more focused. And as such, you can expect a smaller, more targeted membership. They offer a nice slate of virtual events and in-person meetups. Check out their website to see if there’s something that speaks to you. They host everything from fundraisers, to walk-a-thons, to support meetings. They also mention that they can recommend other support groups if you have a different form of alopecia.
Cancer Support Community: www.cancersupportcommunity.org/hair-loss
While this organization focuses on all aspects of facing cancer, they also shine a light on the hair loss that often comes with it. You’ll find that the discussion board creates a great space for talking about hair regrowth treatments, your emotional journey, and much more. This group even gives you access to mental health professionals 24/7. Click on the link for more information on this incredible resource.
The Bald Truth: www.baldtruthtalk.com
This is a popular online show that’s mostly aimed at men, but women might like it for two reasons. First, the “Forum” tab is making a specific effort to invite women into the hair loss conversation, with discussions on women’s hair loss, treatments, and transplants. Secondly, they cover a lot of universal topics that apply to men and women equally, like “coping with hair loss in everyday life.” They even have a tab where you can simply introduce yourself and share your story. Visit their website to see if this online community is calling your name.
As you start browsing online support communities, remember that this is all about finding a personal fit. Some women like a larger group. Others like a more intimate setting. And still others join multiple groups so they can strike that perfect balance somewhere in between. But whatever you’re looking for, take the leap and give it a shot. Because countless women just like you have found these groups to be an endless well of support, information, and camaraderie.
