You’re running your fingers through your hair and notice more strands than usual in your hand or on your brush. It’s a worrying sight, and if you’ve been under a lot of pressure lately, you might be wondering if there’s a connection. The short answer is yes, stress can absolutely cause your hair to fall out.
It’s a surprisingly common experience. Our bodies are deeply interconnected, and significant physical or emotional stress can disrupt the natural growth cycle of your hair. The good news is that this type of hair loss is often temporary. By understanding how stress affects your hair, you can take steps to help it recover.
The Link Between Your Stress and Your Hair
Hair grows in a cycle with distinct phases. Normally, most of your hair is in a growing phase, while a small percentage is in a resting phase before it naturally sheds. Significant stress can shock your system, pushing a larger number of hairs into the shedding phase at once. This condition is known as telogen effluvium. You typically won’t notice the hair fall until two or three months after the stressful event, which can make the connection less obvious.
What Stress-Related Hair Loss Feels Like
You might not just see more hair in the drain. Some people notice their hair feels thinner overall, especially at the crown or part line. It’s usually a general shedding rather than distinct bald patches. Another type of stress-induced hair loss, called alopecia areata, causes the immune system to attack hair follicles, leading to sudden, patchy hair loss. A third kind, trichotillomania, is an irresistible urge to pull out hair from your scalp or other areas as a way to cope with stress.
Caring for Your Hair and Your Wellbeing
Since this hair loss is a reaction to stress, the most effective treatment focuses on managing that stress. Be patient and gentle with yourself and your hair. Incorporate calming activities into your routine, like a daily walk, deep breathing exercises, or prioritizing a full night’s sleep. Nourish your body with a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, and vitamins. Handle your hair gently—avoid tight hairstyles and excessive heat styling.
When to Seek Professional Guidance
While stress-related shedding often resolves on its own, it’s always a good idea to talk to a doctor or dermatologist. They can confirm the cause and rule out other potential factors like thyroid issues or nutrient deficiencies. If your hair loss is sudden, patchy, or accompanied by a burning or itchy scalp, seeking professional advice is an important step.
Seeing extra hair fall can be distressing in itself, but remember that it’s often your body’s way of signaling that it needs care. By addressing the root cause of stress and adopting healthier habits, you can create the right conditions for your hair to begin its recovery journey.