Can depression cause hair loss?

Depression is the most commonly occurring mental health problem, and it comes with a host of unpleasant symptoms. While everyone feels sad or low or struggles with self-esteem from time to time, depression is a more serious condition. Left untreated, depression can become serious. There are many forms of depression, so symptoms present and how long they last can vary based on the type of depression someone experiences and the individual themselves.

Some symptoms of depression include:

• Feelings of emptiness, hopelessness, sadness, or worthlessness
• Anger outbursts or irritation that is out of proportion to a situation
• Loss of interest in once enjoyed hobbies and activities
• Low levels of energy and motivation
• Sleep difficulties like insomnia and hypersomnia
• Changes in appetite, weight loss, or weight gain
• Anxiety or restlessness
• Slower thinking, speaking and moving than normal
• Difficulty concentrating and making choices
• Guilt
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Physical aches and pains or headaches

If you’re experiencing thoughts of suicide, visit your nearest emergency room or contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.

Depression can also result in hair symptoms like brittle hair, dry hair, and hair breakage. Stress can also lead to hair loss and is often a factor in depression that occurs alongside it. High stress can cause hair follicles to go into a resting phase, resulting in less growth. Alopecia is a condition that occurs when the body’s immune system attacks hair follicles and causes hair loss. While many causes contribute to alopecia, stress is thought to play a role.

Depression is a serious condition, and treating it properly is important. Hair loss may be the least of the concerns you may have if you’re trying to cope with depression. If you notice hair loss happening suddenly, talk with your trusted medical provider to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing. If you’re experiencing depression, talk with your doctor or with a licensed therapist.

Depression is typically treated with therapy, medication, or a combination of both, which are each helpful. Managing depression and its symptoms can be a matter of life and death. If you’re experiencing depression, talk with your doctor or a licensed therapist today.