Damaged Hair Devastation, suggestions?

My hair has been over processed and damaged for a while. It has progressively gotten worse due to the fact that I continue to use heat and chemicals on it. Finally, I decided to take action against the breakage and the dryness. I stopped straightening it, I don't dye it, I wash it with a moustirizing shampoo and conditioner only a couple times a week, and I cut the ends often. Most of my damage is on one sides of my hair, and I cut it short so that the breakage stops and it will regrow. It goes to about my chin. However, the back of my hair touches down to the top of my back. Because of this, I can't wear my hair down. I am on summer break, and I'm hoping that by the time I have to go to school, it has grown out. I am taking a Biotin vitamin supplements, hoping that it will allow my hair to grow at maximum speed. I am just so embarrased and its taking a toll on me emotionally. I would just like to have some hope and peice of mind. Any suggestions, on how i could hide my hair, help it to grow, or just some personal stories? Is there hope for my hair? Thank you.