Depression and Chronic Stress - Can They Cause Hair Loss?

Question

I have been experiencing chronic stress for a long time, about 5 years non-stop. From this I developed depression and suicidal thoughts. My question is can hormonal changes develop from experiencing chronic stress and manic depression over a long time cause hair loss? What is the best way to lower the levels of each, and if I deal with both - will my hair regrow?

Sanusi Umar, MD · Answer

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.

Epameinondas Bonaros, MD · Answer

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.

Larissa Miller, MD · Answer

This account is requested to be deleted and legal actions against RealSelf.com are in progress. 
Our apologies to patients, the doctor's contributions to this business are being deleted.  
Please, remember it's always safer to see your doctor for concerns.

Channing R. Barnett, MD · Answer

I personally believe that depression and chronic stress, both of which can alter hormone levels, play a role in hair loss. That being said, as hair loss is a very complicated subject and requires a hair evaluation and extensive discussion of the patient's history including medications, this question really should not be answered online. I recommend you consult with a board-certified dermatologist specializing in hair loss.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

stress is a noted accelerator of genetic hair loss and that would also apply to depression.  This is not a 100 percent rule however but if you are stressed and you see hair loss, then address your stress issues

Depression and Chronic Stress - Can They Cause Hair Loss?

Answers (6)