Hair Depression: The Overlooked Link Between Hair Health and Mental Health for Black Women

In today’s world, the conversation around mental health has grown significantly, yet there’s an area of mental wellness that’s frequently overlooked—hair care. For Black women, hair is much more than a part of physical appearance; it’s interwoven with identity, culture, self-esteem, and confidence. When mental health issues like depression surface, they can manifest in subtle but impactful ways, and hair care is often one of the first self-care routines to fall by the wayside. This phenomenon, known as "hair depression," is something many Black women experience but may not openly discuss.

The term "hair depression" highlights how mental health struggles impact self-care routines, particularly hair maintenance. As illustrated in the TikTok video by @astylefactor, many Black women face the dual challenges of navigating depression and managing hair that requires a high level of care. When mental health wanes, routine tasks like styling, moisturizing, and maintaining hair can feel overwhelming, often resulting in neglected hair, breakage, or discomfort. Let’s dive deeper into how this connection between hair care and mental health unfolds and discuss some actionable solutions for those navigating these challenges.

The Unique Role of Hair in Black Women’s Lives

For Black women, hair is a form of self-expression, cultural pride, and, at times, resistance against societal norms. It’s tied to identity and the experience of womanhood within the Black community. Textured hair requires care and consistency, and while this can be a rewarding process, it also requires commitment, energy, and, sometimes, professional assistance. Hair maintenance is not always simple or affordable, and when combined with the challenges of mental health, this process can feel isolating and discouraging.

The TikTok video by @astylefactor illustrates a scenario many Black women may find familiar: depression takes a toll, leaving hair care neglected, resulting in matted or tangled hair. Often, women facing this are hesitant to seek help because, unfortunately, stylists who specialize in textured hair may not always have the patience or empathy to understand the unique struggles tied to mental health. This stigma surrounding matted hair can make seeking help feel shameful or, worse, unattainable.

Mental Health and Self-Care Practices: The Science Behind the Connection

Self-care practices like hair maintenance are crucial for psychological well-being and are linked to mental health through a principle called the biopsychosocial model, which considers biological, psychological, and social factors. Engaging in regular self-care is not only beneficial for physical health but also for helping with your mental health. However, depression can reduce the desire to engage in self-care practices, creating a feedback loop of worsening symptoms.

According to the research, a lack of motivation can correlate with decreased dopamine, the neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward (Nestler & Carlezon, 2006). For Black women, culturally significant tasks like hair care can be even more overwhelming because it’s not simply about maintaining appearance but also connecting to a cultural practice with deep meaning.

Hair care routines for Black women often require time, patience, and specialized knowledge. When depression or other mental health issues interfere, hair can become tangled or matted over time, making it increasingly difficult to re-establish a self-care routine. These physical signs of neglected self-care can further impact mental health, contributing to negative self-image and reduced confidence. The cycle of avoiding hair care due to depression, followed by a worsened state of hair health, can make the journey back to routine even more challenging.

The Haircare Industry and the Need for Empathy

The experience shared by @astylefactor highlights another key issue: many hairstylists, even those skilled in textured hair, may lack the sensitivity or understanding to support clients facing mental health challenges. When a stylist expresses unwillingness to work with textured hair that has become matted or unmanageable, it can leave clients feeling embarrassed or rejected.

In contrast, the stylist in the TikTok video who agreed to work with her despite these challenges not only supported her with practical hair care but also showed empathy—a critical component often missing in these situations. Stylists who acknowledge the mental health struggles of their clients and offer solutions, like lower-maintenance hairstyles, provide a form of compassionate care that goes beyond aesthetics. For Black women struggling with hair depression, finding a stylist who prioritizes hair health while being sensitive to mental health concerns can make all the difference in regaining confidence and re-establishing a self-care routine.

Practical Steps for Managing Hair Depression

While hair depression can feel isolating, there are strategies that can help Black women reconnect with their self-care routines, even during challenging times.

1. Seek Low-Maintenance Styles

Opting for protective styles that require minimal upkeep can help reduce the pressure to engage in frequent hair maintenance. Styles like braids, twists, or buns are excellent options that offer a break from daily styling and can remain manageable for weeks. These styles can be life-saving when experiencing periods of low motivation and energy.

2. Find a Supportive Stylist

Search for a hairstylist who not only understands textured hair but also demonstrates empathy and patience. Many stylists offer consultations, which can be a great way to gauge their approach to hair and mental health. A stylist who listens and works with you to find manageable styles can make hair care less stressful and help alleviate the sense of shame that often comes with neglected hair.

3. Create Small, Achievable Hair Goals

Depression can make long-term commitments feel overwhelming. Instead of planning to do a full hair routine, set small, manageable goals, like misting your hair with water or applying a leave-in conditioner every few days. Celebrating these small steps can gradually build a renewed sense of routine and control.

4. Incorporate Mental Health into Your Hair Care Plan

Recognizing that hair care is also mental health care can be transformative. Speak openly with trusted people, including your stylist, about how mental health impacts your hair routines. If you have friends or family members who understand textured hair, don’t hesitate to reach out to them for support.

5. Consider Professional Mental Health Support

Seeking help from a mental health professional can provide the emotional support needed to navigate the impact of depression on self-care routines. Therapists can help develop coping strategies to better manage day-to-day tasks, including hair care, during depressive episodes. Black women in particular may benefit from seeking out mental health professionals who understand the cultural nuances of hair and identity.

6. Follow creators like Dr. Afiya Mbilishaka (@psychohairapy on IG) and www.psychohairapy.org to learn more and gain access to resources whether you are a community member or stylist.

Conclusion: Bridging the Gap Between Hair and Mental Health

The conversation surrounding “hair depression” sheds light on an issue that is both highly personal and deeply cultural for Black women. The experience of hair care as a form of self-love and empowerment underscores its importance beyond simple aesthetics. Addressing hair depression requires a holistic approach that acknowledges both the physical and psychological aspects of self-care.

For Black women, reclaiming hair care routines lost to depression can be empowering. It’s a journey of rediscovering self-worth, identity, and cultural pride. Stylists who prioritize mental health alongside hair health, friends and family who support during hard times, and small, achievable goals can all contribute to this journey.

In understanding the powerful link between hair health and mental well-being, we open doors for more empathetic conversations and inclusive practices within the beauty industry. For those experiencing hair depression, remember you’re not alone—there is a community ready to support and a future of good hair days waiting for you.

Dr. Natalie King, PhD

CEO/Founder & Neuroscientist 

References:

• Nestler, E. J., & Carlezon, W. A. (2006). The Mesolimbic Dopamine Reward Circuit in Depression. Biological Psychiatry, 59(12), 1151-1159.