New Study Shines A Light On The Psychological Impact Of Hair Loss 

There are many kinds of hair loss, from general thinning to a receding hairline to sporadic balding, the latter formally known as alopecia areata. According to a recent study, this specific form of hair loss has been linked to mental health struggles as well. 

The study, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, is a systematic review and meta-analysis aiming to determine what mental health symptoms may accompany physical symptoms of hair loss. 

The results state that 7 to 17% of patients with alopecia areata had depressive or anxiety disorders1, with more than ⅓ of patients having symptoms. This number is higher than the general population, the study states. 

These specific results have been tied to alopecia areata, but it's important to clarify that feelings of anxiousness or sadness can certainly stem from any form of shedding and hair loss. 

While these findings may not be entirely surprising, especially for those who have struggled with hair loss or their mental health, it's an important milestone that can encourage dermatologists working with hair loss patients to screen them for anxiety and depression. 

Of course, a mental health professional should complete the official diagnosis, but now dermatologists can use tools like the Patient Health Questionnaire and Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-Item Scale in their own practice; this can be helpful for derms who have created a trusted relationship with their patient already. 

Not to mention, studies like this often provide more peace of mind. Meaning: If you've felt anxious or depressed since dealing with hair loss, just know you're certainly not alone; and even if you aren't connected with a mental health professional yet, your primary care or dermatologist may be able to help get you there. 

In the meantime, it's important to focus on supporting your mental health however you can. If you pair expert-led hair growth techniques with a positive mental health practice, it may even help alleviate some of the anxiety surrounding hair loss.

Massaging your scalp stimulates blood flow, which sends oxygen and hair-healthy nutrients to the follicles—this, in turn, sparks faster hair growth2. 

However, it might be an anxiety-inducing activity if you're focused on your hair loss when massaging your hair. So pair this practice with listing people, moments, and situations that you're grateful for right now; practicing gratitude with your scalp massage can help distract your in a positive way.

It's no secret that drinking coffee on an empty stomach can cause what many call the "caffeine jitters." For someone with preexisting anxiety or depression, these jitters can feel even more intense and uncomfortable. 

To mitigate this nervous energy, pair your coffee with a protein so you have some substance on board besides just black coffee. If you can, try to eat a balanced breakfast before drinking your first cup. 

If that's not an option for any reason, you can always boost your coffee by adding a scoop of collagen powder to your cup. 

While at-home techniques are great, it's important to know when to seek professional help for either (or both) concerns. 

When it comes to hair loss, there's a long list of potential causes and a variety of options for treatment. Ask your dermatologist about methods that align with your current hair state.