There are what seems like a million different causes of hair loss and stress is just one among plenty. However, it’s no secret that stress can be a cause of hair loss and understanding when this is the case and when there’s a deeper underlying problem is vital in knowing how to fix it. While stress-related hair loss is often temporary, other conditions could lead you the need for a more permanent fix like a hair transplant, but first, it’s important to know the difference. We’re taking a look at how stress can cause hair loss, and whether your hair loss is caused by exactly that.
The Conditions
In general, stress itself doesn’t tend to be a direct cause of hair loss and instead is the cause of a number of conditions that manifest in hair loss. Severe mental and physical stress will almost always lead to illness or strain on your body, but three of the most common hair-related illnesses are as follows:
- Alopecia Areata – This is a condition that manifests in clumps of your hair falling out without warning in random areas around your scalp.
- Telogen Effluvium – This is the loss of more hair than usual, but across your head rather than in clumps.
- Trichotillomania – This is a condition caused by anxiety and stress in which a person pulls out their own hair without realising, or as part of a habit.
There is also the chance that your hair is simply weakened by stress, but whatever the case, a trip to your GP could answer this for you regardless and help set you on the path to reversing or preventing the issue.
Not All Hair Loss Is Stress Or Anxiety Related
As we’ve mentioned before, not all hair loss is stress or anxiety related and knowing the potential causes could help you source the issue and work out how to best solve the issue. In some cases, hair loss can simply be hereditary and you may be nearing the typical age for balding within your family history. Hormonal changes can also have an effect, typically where pregnancy, childbirth, menopause or thyroid problems are concerned or it could be as a result of other medication that you are taking.
If you really aren’t sure, visit your GP. They could notice other symptoms you haven’t picked up on that could point to other medical conditions, or at least put your mind at rest!
What You Can Do To Solve Hair Loss
The solution for hair loss ultimately depends on the cause, but if you’re suffering from stress-related hair loss, there are a few things you can do to slow down the effects and better care for your hair.
The first, of course, is to reduce your levels of stress and anxiety. While this is undoubtedly more easily said than done, finding ways to deal with your stress is a must whether you’re suffering from hair loss or not. Whether you opt for talking to someone, finding the source of the stress and cutting it out or simply finding more effective coping methods, there is plenty you can do – you just need to find what works for you!
If you have stress-weakened hair, the best thing you can do is take good care of you and your hair. Give the styling a rest for a while, and make sure that you’re getting the right level of vitamins and minerals that you need for healthy hair growth and healthy living. Moisturising conditioners are another good idea, though try and avoid washing your hair every single day as this can strip your locks of natural oils! Whatever your hair type, there are hair care tips out there waiting for you to find them and plenty of stress and anxiety support to get you through the tougher times.
Leave a Reply