What therapy support is available for a child with alopecia areata in Calgary?

Therapy Support for Children with Alopecia in Calgary

Children with alopecia areata in Calgary should be referred to psychological support services including pediatric clinical psychologists, educational psychologists, or social workers when showing signs of psychological distress such as withdrawal, low self-esteem, school performance issues, or behavioral changes. 1

Understanding Alopecia Areata in Children

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition causing non-scarring hair loss that can significantly impact a child's psychological well-being. While the condition itself doesn't directly affect physical health, its psychological effects can be profound, leading to:

• Self-consciousness and feelings of being different
• Anxiety and depression
• Social, academic, and personal problems
• Behavioral changes (shy, cautious, aggressive, retreating, evasive, or defensive)

Psychological Support Options in Calgary

When to Seek Psychological Support

Parents should consider psychological support when noticing:

• Withdrawal from social activities
• Declining self-esteem
• Deteriorating school performance
• Behavioral changes
• Difficulty coping with the condition

Available Support Resources

1. Professional Mental Health Services:

   • Pediatric clinical psychologists
   • Educational psychologists
   • Social workers

2. Patient Support Groups:

   • Connecting with other children and families dealing with alopecia
   • Provides practical advice and emotional support
   • Helps develop self-acceptance of altered body image 1

Medical Management Considerations

While psychological support is crucial, understanding the medical aspects helps families cope better:

• Alopecia areata has a high spontaneous remission rate (up to 80%) in limited patchy hair loss of short duration (<1 year) 1
• Medical treatments have variable efficacy and should be discussed with dermatologists
• For localized patchy alopecia, topical or intralesional corticosteroids are typically first-line treatments 2
• Treatment decisions should consider the child's age, extent of hair loss, and psychological impact 2

Important Considerations for Parents

• Counseling is essential: Explanation of the condition, its course, and available treatments helps both children and parents cope 1
• Prepare for treatment challenges: Some treatments can be uncomfortable, time-consuming, and may lead to disappointment if relapse occurs 1
• Focus on self-acceptance: This is particularly important for children with long-standing, extensive alopecia 1
• Consider practical solutions: Wigs or head coverings may be appropriate options for some children

Pitfalls to Avoid

• Overlooking psychological impact: The emotional toll of alopecia can be more significant than the physical aspects
• Pursuing aggressive treatments: No treatment has been shown to alter the long-term course of the disease, and some carry significant side effects 1
• Neglecting school support: Teachers and school counselors should be informed to prevent bullying and provide appropriate accommodations
• Focusing solely on hair regrowth: Quality of life and psychological well-being should be the primary concerns

Addressing the psychological aspects of alopecia areata in children is as important as managing the physical condition itself. With appropriate support, children can develop healthy coping strategies and maintain good quality of life despite the challenges of hair loss.