Research suggests that stress can cause temporary hair loss and hair thinning causes increased anxiety. Extreme stress can be brought on by work, home life, divorce, financial difficulties, death of a loved one and the list goes on.

Stress can cause havoc to the body as it interferes with the hair growth pattern as the stress chemicals in the body are disrupted and transmit signals to hair follicles which discontinues hair growth.

This type of hair loss is normally classified as telogen effluvium which is a temporary form of hair loss. Hair sheds from the roots as it has entered the resting phase. Once the stressful period has finished the hair follicles will stay in this resting period of the cycle and new hair growth will commence when the hair shedding has stopped. This type of hair loss does not cause bald patches as it is more of a ‘difuse shed’ where hair sheds all over the scalp. With this particular type of hair loss it is not necessary to get hair transplants or seek advice from a dermatologist as the hair growth should resume once the stress has been reduced.

It is important to address the stress which is causing the hair loss as you want hair growth to continue. If you find the hair loss is causing further stress there are immediate cosmetic fixes to the problem such as wigs and hair pieces which can be purchased over the internet. You should not stop going out because of the hair shedding.

The best way to deal with extremely stressful events is to learn how to manage your stress levels. It is best to keep active as opposed to sitting around worrying as this will possibly make it even worse and enlarge the problem. Find an activity that you derive pleasure from, such as running, walking the dog, shopping, dancing, meeting up with friends, reading, writing, and art. If you are unemployed and don’t want to be sitting around the house all day worrying try taking up voluntary work. Try discussing your problem with a close friend or relative as they may have experienced a similar event and might be able to offer you solutions to the problem.

If you find that the stress is ongoing you may want to seek advice from a medical specialist but you should only confide in one who you feel comfortable with. You do not want to be divulging all of your secrets and problems to somebody who you feel uncomfortable around.

Some herbal teas that are recommended to reduce stress levels are skullcap, lavender, chamomile, passionflower, wood betony, and lemon balm. These teas can be found in supermarkets and heath food shops. You may want to add a teaspoon of honey to add a little sweetness.

Herbal capsules such as valerian, kava, st. john’s wart are effective ways in treating stress as opposed to taking xanax, valium which can be highly addictive and you may create a whole lot of new problems for yourself.

Many hair thinning causes caused by stress can be corrected quite easily and you should start to see your hair growth pattern resume once you the stress has subsided.