Depression and Chronic Stress - Can They Cause Hair Loss?

Yes, depression and excessive emotional or physical stress are linked to hair loss. Stress can prompt white blood cells to attack the hair follicles, causing alopecia. It can also push hairs into a prolonged resting phase, which is called telogen effluvium. Your hair loss should not be permanent and will likely grow back once you get your emotional health on track. I advise you to seek help for your psychological turmoil first and foremost.  Then, if your hair does not grow back in due time, consult a dermatologist.

Anxiety can trigger or worsen hair loss. The exact mechanisms of hair loss due to stress and anxiety are still underresearched. Some authors argue that it is the medication for anxiety that is to blame. Others suggest that hormonal changes of prolonged anxiety and stress affect the hair growth cycle.Yet, one thing is known for sure. Stress and physiological reactions associated with anxiety can and often do induce several types of hair loss.Psychotherapy, relaxation techniques and cognitive reframing can all help.

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