The Dramatic Psychological Effects of Head Lice

With a vast repertoireofemotions, we humans are a thinking and feeling species. Since ancient times, we and lice have had a strange relationship. While we have always wanted to end the relationship, it is lice’s love that makes them cling to us. 

The sesame-sized parasite loves to feed on human blood. Mostly, kids aged 3 to 11 are believed to be affected by head lice. Apart from itching of the scalp and sleeping difficulties, there are other psychological effects of lice infestation.

The Social Stigma Associated with Head Lice

There is a certain stigma associated with head lice. This is because people feel it is an undesirable health condition (which it is)

As soon as they hear somebody has head lice, they find it hard not to cringe away. This is because of the bad reputation that lice have among humans.

For the person who has life infestation, it might mean a massive dent to the social identity. He/she might be excluded from the group and might have to face social isolation. It is hard for the group to accept somebody with head lice.

Social isolation can hamper a person’s psychological well being. Feelings of loneliness and depression can quickly creep in if social support is not provided immediately.

Role of Disgust

A head louse is associated with contamination – something that makes you cringe every time you watch it.

This is what makes people feel disgusted when they hear that somebody has been infested. At school, this can lead to bullying and teasing which can shatter a kid’s confidence.

Impact on the Family

It is not just the kid who gets affected; the entire family is influenced in one way or another. For instance, parents feel highly embarrassed when the school authorities call them about their kid’s lice infestation.

From feeling stressful to blaming their kids, parents sometimes react in counterproductive ways. This can create a psychological toll on the affected kid.

It is very important that parents understand that lice infestation is a very common phenomenon among school going children. It has nothing to do with cleanliness. Any kid, without any discrimination, could have acquired lice.

Lice Treatment

Once your kid has been infested with head lice, it is very important that you seek immediate treatment. This is essential not only for effective removal of lice, but also for a speedy recovery of your child’s psychological well being.

If your kid has been infested with lice, we at Urgent Lice Removal can help. With a team of savvy lice specialists and pesticide free procedures, we ensure that the lice are quickly removed from your kid’s head. What’s more, our lice center provides a lice-free certificate so that your kid can return to school. This also helps him/her deal better with the psychological issues of lice infestation. Learn more about our services.