Is Hair Loss Linked to Stress?
Written by Dr. Griffin
Although many causes of temporary stress are common in everyday life, chronic stress—which is a state of constant heightened tension or prolonged feelings of being pressured and overwhelmed—is bad for your health in a multitude of ways. Stress does more than affect us emotionally. It can also worsen other medical conditions you might have. Some of the most severe health problems associated with stress include heart disease, asthma, obesity, diabetes, and depression. Experts have also revealed that stress can contribute to the loss of a healthy head of hair. If you’re suffering from extreme stress, your body may push your hair through the growth cycle more quickly, leading to rapid hair loss. There are several types of hair loss—including telogen effluvium, trichotillomania, and alopecia areata—that are directly associated with high levels of stress. Your next question will probably be, “How can I stop my hair falling out due to stress?” Our Philadelphia-area team is available to guide you on this. The good news is that you don’t have to deal with stress and hair loss forever.
Hair loss that is caused by stress will typically manifest as a diffuse thinning of the hair all over the scalp rather than a receding hairline or spot baldness. Hair that falls out in an expected and predictable way is more likely due to male or female pattern hair loss, which is genetic and not due to any particular situation or condition.
When it comes to stress-related loss, specifically, there are ways to cope with the issue. In fact, if your hair loss is solely caused by stress, it’s possible to completely reverse it in just a few months. Here’s what you should know about reducing stress:
Manage Stress with At-Home Techniques
There are plenty of activities than can help you cope with stress, such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing, and journaling. Try pausing throughout your day and slowly breathing in for a count of five, holding your breath for a count of five, and then breathing out for a count of five. Repeat several times.
Make Lifestyle Changes
You may need to alter aspects of your career or personal life to minimize chronic stress. While some strategies are more dramatic than others—such as switching to a less stressful job—many are more easily incorporated into your daily like. Try exercising more frequently, reducing your intake of caffeine other stimulants, and improving your sleeping habits. That means consistently getting to bed at a reasonable hour and avoiding screens (TVs, computers, and phones) for at least half an hour before going to sleep.
Consult a Knowledgeable Professional
Even if you regularly feel stressed, your hair loss problem could be due to any number of factors. Scheduling a consultation with a physician devoted to diagnosing hair loss and providing restoration solutions can get you answers.
Contact the Griffin Hair Restoration Center team for more advice on dealing with hair loss. Call us at (215) 561-9100 or submit a contact form if you would like to request an in-person consultation.