Living With Alopecia: What I've Learned | Claire Fullam - 019

HAIRPOD™

Hair loss can have a significant impact on mental health, but unfortunately, this is often not given the attention it deserves. To complicate matters, mental health issues such as stress can even be the trigger for conditions related to hair loss. In this episode of HairPod, we wrap up Mental Health Awareness Month by discussing the connection between mental health and hair loss with guest Claire Fullam, a trichologist from Dublin. Claire shares her story of living with alopecia, her struggles with addiction, and her journey to recovery. We hope her story provides inspiration and insight for those experiencing the emotional impact of hair loss.

Claire’s Story - Alopecia and the Birth of Claire Balding

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease that can cause rapid hair loss. It can be triggered by stress and can vary in intensity. Claire was hit hard and fast, losing most of her hair in less than two months. She tried all avenues and specialists, seeking a solution and explanation. During this initial phase of her hair loss journey, Claire also launched her social media persona, “Claire Balding,” to share her story and empower others, while at the same time creating her own network of support.

It's Not Just Hair - Hair Loss, Trauma and the Path to Addiction

Claire's hair loss was not only a result of the stress she was experiencing but also a contributor to it! Autoimmune disorders such as alopecia areata can be challenging to manage because of the vicious nature of the stress cycle. Struggling with the pressures of motherhood, life, and her newly discovered alopecia, Claire found herself slipping into substance abuse. She shares her story and transformation, highlighting the need for support and community.

Prioritizing Mental Health While Seeking Hair Loss Solutions

Claire brings to light the emotional impact hair loss can have on the individual experiencing it. The pain of hair loss is difficult to understand for those who haven’t been there, but is a very real problem. Our hair is tied to identity, health, and security. The trauma of hair loss is real, and sometimes this only becomes apparent in hindsight. It is important to seek emotional support along the way. Claire shares how hearing others' stories has helped her and inspired her to share her experience with alopecia and addiction.

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Thanks for listening to HairPod. We hope you enjoyed this episode. If you did, please leave us a rating or review wherever you get your podcasts. If you’d like to connect with us on social media to share your story, check us out on Instagram @HairClub. HairPod is a production of TSE Studios. Our theme music is from SoundStripe.