Most people are underprepared for the crisis brought about by alopecia area. For the most part, persons with alopecia areata, as well as family members and friends, are forced to deal with a variety of novel situations that can be confusing and unpredictable.

The following list of tasks is provided as a guide to help you deal with your alopecia areata. Although all of the tasks listed are important for successful adaptation to alopecia areata, they do not need to be approached in the order in which they are given.

• Gather information about alopecia areata from NAAF’s website
• Gather information about treatment alternatives, as well as their relative effectiveness, cost, and side effects
• Connect with others who have alopecia areata through NAAF’s various programs including the NAAF Support Network, Helping Hearts through Hands (Pen Pal Program) and NAAF MessageBoards
• Make decisions with physicians, family, and friends regarding whether to pursue treatments, and if so, which ones
• Gather information from NAAF about prostheses (wigs) and cosmetics for dealing with hair loss
• Preserve your emotional balance by learning coping strategies for managing symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress
• Sustain and strengthen relationships with family and friends who are willing to talk about feelings associated with dealing with alopecia areata
• Pursue positive areas of your life (work, education, personal growth, exercise, health, recreation, intimate relationships, etc.).