Ex-hijabi here, Yes, it is not a choice because the moment you decide not to wear it, the reaction from your muslim family and friends will say it all (unless you're from a more liberal family lucky you). I'm semi-exiled from my dad's side of the family after I removed my hijab. Brothers wont even talk to me either. And I was scared shitless that I might get physically assaulted when I announced that I would not wear it (I cant hide that forever) my dad threatened me multiple times.I come from a Muslim majority country btw so its very hard to be me at the moment.