Suchergebnisse

Abstract: Background: Alopecia areata (AA) is a chronic immunological disease characterized by hair loss on the scalp and/or body. Medical treatments are frequently ineffective, leaving many individuals with little hope for hair regrowth. Despite high rates of psychological turmoil experienced by people living with AA, little consideration is given to the unique impact of the condition and the potential benefits of coping approaches. Aims: The purpose of this study was to establish a foundation of strategies for coping with AA as recommended by people currently living with the diagnosis. Method: An international sample of 190 participants shared perspectives on types of strategies they believe would be useful for living with AA. A qualitative content analysis approach was used to code and group participant responses. Results: Frequently identified strategies included various forms of social support and strategies for social navigation, perspective-shifting, cosmetic strategies and procedures, and accessing medical and psychological interventions. Limitations: Participants were limited to a largely female convenience sample. The findings were not associated with real-life outcomes, only anecdotal recommendations. Conclusion: The findings of the present study further support prior research yet offer unique perspectives as well.

Abstract. Background: Alopecia areata (AA) is among the most common immunological conditions. Although AA is considered to be a medically benign condition, those living with AA often report comorbid psychiatric conditions, high levels of functional impairment, and diminished quality of life. These consequences are largely due to the unique psychological turmoil associated with the condition. Unfortunately, little research has considered how to improve quality of life outcomes for this group. Aims: The purpose of this study was to evaluate how the PERMA framework of well-being is associated with the individual subjective experience of AA. A greater understanding of how PERMA applies to this group holds promise for assisting clinicians with devising psychosocial coping strategies for this population. Method: 274 individuals were recruited for participation. Hierarchical regression analyses were used to evaluate associations between the PERMA variables and AA-related (a) subjective symptoms (e.g., self-consciousness, sadness) and (b) relationship impact (e.g., perceived attractiveness). Each analysis controlled for demographic and condition-specific variables. Results: Demographic and PERMA variables were found to be significantly associated with positive experiences of each quality of life outcome. Limitations: The male to female ratio of participants was biased toward females. Furthermore, the nature of cross-sectional survey research has inherent limitations. Conclusion: The findings provide support for a relationship between PERMA variables and quality of life outcomes among people with AA. Clinical implications and future research directions are discussed.