Yes, stress and hair loss can be related.
There are three types of hair loss that can be associated with elevated stress levels:
Telogen effluvium.
In telogen effluvium, significant stress causes a number of hair follicles to go into a resting phase. Within a few months, the affected hairs may suddenly fall out simply by combing or washing the hair.
Trichotillomania.
Trichotillomania is an irresistible and recurring urge to pull hair out of your scalp, eyebrows or other areas of your body, even if you try to stop yourself. Hair pulling can be a way of coping with negative or uncomfortable feelings, such as stress, tension, loneliness, boredom or frustration.
Alopecia areata.
A number of factors are believed to cause alopecia areata, such as severe stress. In alopecia areata, the body’s immune system attacks the hair follicles, resulting in hair loss.
Stress and hair loss do not have to be permanent. And if you can manage your stress, your hair may grow back.
Be sure to talk to your doctor if you notice sudden or uneven hair loss, or more hair loss than normal when combing or washing your hair. Sudden hair loss may be a sign of an underlying condition that may require treatment. If necessary, your doctor can also suggest treatment options for hair loss.
