Stress can have a significant impact on our bodies. One of the ways that it can affect you is by increasing the amount of hair you lose or preventing your hair from growing as well as it should.
How Stress Causes Hair Loss
Stress can cause hair loss in several different ways. Your emotional state can exacerbate many physical health conditions, including those that cause hair loss. Stress can also reduce your general health, which may cause thinning or weakening of the hair even if there is no specific condition associated with the hair loss. This kind of stress-related hair loss could occur in patches or across the scalp. Another possible link between stress and hair loss is that it could trigger compulsive hair pulling. Understanding why hair loss is happening and what role stress is playing is important as it will ensure you get the right treatment and support.
Tackling Stress-Related Hair Loss
If your hair loss is related to stress then it is important to tackle the cause rather than only focusing on the symptoms. Reducing your stress levels could have a significant impact on your hair as well as improving your general health and wellbeing. You should discuss the causes of your stress with your doctor or visit a psychologist to learn some stress management techniques. You might be able to eliminate some sources of stress in your life or to improve the way you manage them. Making sure that you take time to relax, get enough sleep and some regular outdoor exercise can also help with stress. The effects of stress-related hair loss are usually temporary and will improve once your mental state gets better. However, if stress is exacerbating another condition rather than causing hair loss on its own, you may also need additional treatment from your dermatologist.
