Hair loss is one of the most common – and least discussed – changes many men experience. By the age of 50, up to 50% of Caucasian men will have noticeable thinning or baldness. Yet despite how common it is, hair loss is still associated with stigma, embarrassment and silent suffering.
This November, as we shine a light on Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, we want to start an open conversation. Because hair loss isn’t just about looks – it’s about confidence, identity and emotional wellbeing.
At Hair + Me, we believe that supporting hair regrowth is about more than treating the scalp – it’s about supporting the whole person.
Why Hair Loss Hits Confidence So Hard
For many men, hair isn’t just hair. It’s tied to self-image, youth and masculinity. When it starts to thin or recede, it can feel like losing a part of your identity.
Studies show that men experiencing hair loss often report:
Lower self-esteem and social confidence
Increased self-consciousness in public, or intimate settings
Avoidance of photos, dating or social situations
Anxiety or low mood linked to appearance
Dr Alex George, Hair + Me’s brand ambassador and mental health advocate, explains:
“Hair loss isn't just about appearance - it can affect confidence, self-esteem, even how attractive or comfortable you feel in your own skin. Millions of men experience it, but few feel able to talk about it.”
The first step is acknowledging that it’s okay to care about your hair – and how it makes you feel.
The Silent Struggle: Why Men Don’t Talk About It
Despite how common hair loss is, men rarely talk openly about it – even with close friends or partners.
Why? Because it’s often associated with shame, stigma or loss of control.
Society still tells men to “just accept it” or “shave it off,” dismissing the very real psychological impact. But suppressing those emotions can affect mental health, leading to frustration, stress or even depression.
Breaking that silence matters. By talking about hair loss – whether online, in a doctor’s office or with a friend – men can find understanding, practical solutions and emotional relief.
How Hair Loss And Mental Health Are Linked
The connection between hair and mental health goes both ways.
Stress and anxiety can trigger or worsen certain types of hair loss, like telogen effluvium or alopecia areata.
In turn, hair loss can increase stress and self-doubt, creating a vicious cycle.
Over time, this can lead to low self-esteem, withdrawal or depressive symptoms – especially if men feel they can’t talk about it.
Addressing both the physical and emotional sides of hair loss is key. Treatment works best when there is a holistic approach, supporting both the hair growth and the individual’s emotional and mental wellbeing.
Rebuilding Confidence: Small Steps, Big Difference
Regaining confidence after hair loss doesn’t have to start with a drastic change. Often, it begins with taking control.
Here’s how men can start feeling more confident today:
Talk to a professional: A dermatologist or a GP with a special interest in hair can identify the cause and outline treatment options.
Be consistent with treatment: Clinically-proven ingredients like minoxidil can help stimulate hair regrowth when used regularly.
Adopt a healthy routine: Nutrition, sleep and stress management directly support hair and mental health.
Find community: Online forums, support groups and honest conversations help normalise the experience.
As brand ambassador Dr Alex George notes:
“You can’t always control what happens to your hair – but you can control how you respond to it. Seeking help isn’t a weakness; it’s a strength.”
How Hair + Me Supports Men Through It
At Hair + Me, we combine medical expertise with real, human understanding. Our dermatologist-designed treatment plans use clinically-proven ingredients like minoxidil and finasteride to support regrowth and restore confidence.
But we also know that regrowth isn’t just physical – it’s emotional. That’s why we aim to create a space where men feel seen, supported and empowered throughout their journey.
If you’re ready to take that first step, you can complete our 100% online consultation to see if our personalised treatments are right for you.
Final Thoughts
Hair loss can be a deeply personal experience – but you don’t have to face it alone. Talking about it, seeking help and finding the right treatment can make a powerful difference to both your confidence and mental health.
This Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s break the silence around hair loss – and start seeing it for what it is: a common, treatable and human experience.
At Hair + Me, we’re here to help you rebuild your hair, your confidence and your sense of self – one strand at a time.
References
Huang CH, Fu Y, Chi CC. Health-Related Quality of Life, Depression, and Self-esteem in Patients With Androgenetic Alopecia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA Dermatol. 2021 Aug 1;157(8):963-970
Aukerman EL, Jafferany M. The psychological consequences of androgenetic alopecia: A systematic review. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2023 Jan;22(1):89-95
Helpful Resources
Mind - Support people with mental health problems. Through our information and support, we make sure people living with mental health problems find the help they need.
Men’s Minds Matter are passionate about men’s mental health, suicide intervention and prevention. They specialise in developing and delivering psychological interventions for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts, while also advocating for and raising awareness about male suicide.
ANDYSMANCLUB are a men’s suicide prevention charity, offering free to attend peer-to-peer support groups across the United Kingdom and online. They want to end the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and help men through the power of conversation.