Hair is often called the symbol of our youth. It is our crowning glory and often plays a huge role on how we view ourselves. It may also be an expression of self-confidence and personal style. Since we are conditioned on these beliefs, we think that we need to have a full head of hairs to be accepted.

Just recently, I heard a girl teasing a bald man. She said “You know God is so good to you. He gave you a face and cleared more space for another.” Expecting the man to be offended, I was surprised to hear him reply “Listen, I save a lot on haircuts and shampoo. That's one of the benefits of not having hair.”

On the other hand, I have a semi-bald friend who is very sensitive with his condition. Just make a joke about the hair and he will automatically think that he is the subject of your gag. He will explode or storm out of the room immediately.

People with this condition react differently. It's a personal and emotional issue. Some become very distressed with it. They believe that it is a sensitive topic and it affects their image and self esteem. Though there are others who are not as concerned. These optimistic people will cope well with hair loss. They will think of possible solutions like covering it up with hats, caps, scarves or wigs. They may even consider hair transplants. They will not give up until they found the best remedy for their look.

Though there are people like these who have already passed through their grieving process, it is normal for many who feel that their hair loss is very traumatic. There is fear, helplessness and denial. Eventually, the feelings will lead to anger. Very few people will reach ultimate acceptance, which usually happens when they reach old age.

Now if a man finds it difficult to accept balding hair, how do you think a woman will feel? She will have much fear and denial than a man does. “How can a woman like me be bald? It is expected that men can be bald, but not women, not me! It's not happening to me!” It will be like an emotional roller coaster and psychologically devastating!

But whether you are a man or a woman, remember this: You may have no control over the baldness, but you can have a choice about dealing with the problem. It is important to confront yourself and say “If my hair would grow again and stay - its good! But if it doesn't, I cannot do anything about it but all is well with me.”

You can choose to deny or accept this fact of your life. You can go from fear, denial, and anger but in the end, choose to have ultimate acceptance. When you make a decision to accept, your choice will not only affect your outlook in life, but it will also influence how others see you and handle your baldness. When you have a positive outlook in life, you choose peace over conflict. You choose health over illness. Now make your choice.