Today, men all around the world live stressful, hectic lives. Therefore, it’s not surprising that anxiety has ‘exploded’ since 2008. As men are often reserved when it comes to discussing mental health matters, it can be challenging to deal with the onset of anxiety and its consequences. While several symptoms are associated with anxiety, recent studies have suggested a link between the condition and hair loss. So, can anxiety really lead to hair loss?
When your hair’s growth cycle is disrupted, hair loss can occur. The growth of your hair is controlled and delicate, so when it’s affected by DHT, stress, or an illness, hair loss often gets worse. If you’re sensitive to the hormone DHT, your hair follicles may get damaged and eventually die off, which is the most prevalent type of hair loss in men.
Although there are many unanswered questions regarding the relationship between anxiety and hair loss, we know that things are complex. That being said, if you’re able to reduce your anxiety levels while using hair loss treatments, it’s likely that you will reduce the overall impact of your hair loss. Research shows there are three forms of anxiety-associated hair loss:
When physiologic stressors force going hairs into the resting phase of the cycle, the resultant condition is known as Telogen Effluvium. This can cause your hair to stop growing for a period of around three months, and once the hair growth cycle resumes, hair shedding is likely to occur.
Alopecia Areata is clinically defined as an autoimmune disease. In many cases, the condition may be worsened by heightened anxiety and stress levels. The condition attacks your hair follicles, which causes them to excessively shed. While researchers cannot conclusively give the reasons for the condition, it has been widely accepted that stress is one of the most common triggers of Alopecia Areata.
Another condition that can cause hair loss is known as Trichotillomania. It’s often regarded as an obsessive-compulsive disorder, and people who suffer from the condition regularly experience an urge to pull the hair from their head or from other areas of their body. For some people, the condition is a way to subconsciously deal with stress, anxiety, or even boredom.
Although it seems difficult, talking to someone about your anxiety, stress, or depression is one of the most important first steps to getting the help you need. You can also exercise outdoors and practice mindfulness, as they’re both good ways of managing your mental health.
In fact, you might even see your hair loss decrease. If you’re ready to take some steps to do something about your hair loss, check out our clinically approved treatment plans today. You can also get in touch with one of our physicians to ask any questions that you have about how our products work.
All of our blog articles are reviewed for medical accuracy by our Medical Director before publication.
Posted in: All, Hair loss, Men's Health
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