Can depression and anxiety cause hair loss?
Nov 21, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
Depression and anxiety may lead to hair loss, which is a type of physiological hair shedding triggered by psychological factors. It is often associated with bodily dysfunction caused by emotional stress. The severity of hair loss usually correlates with the severity and duration of the condition. If hair loss is accompanied by persistent low mood, anxiety, or thoughts of self-harm, prompt medical attention is recommended.
Depression and anxiety may lead to hair loss, a condition classified as physiological hair shedding triggered by psychological factors. It is often associated with bodily dysfunction caused by emotional stress, and the severity of hair loss typically correlates with the severity and duration of the mental health condition. If hair loss is accompanied by persistent low mood, anxiety, or thoughts of self-harm, prompt medical attention is recommended.
Depression and anxiety can cause neuroendocrine imbalances, increasing cortisol levels in the body. This directly affects the hair follicle growth cycle, forcing hair follicles into the resting phase prematurely and causing excessive shedding of otherwise healthy hair, resulting in diffuse hair loss.
Chronic negative emotions can also impair appetite and nutrient absorption, leading to insufficient intake of essential nutrients such as proteins and vitamins required for healthy hair growth. Additionally, poor sleep quality further exacerbates metabolic disturbances in hair follicles, making hair loss more pronounced. Some patients may even develop conditions such as alopecia areata.
Maintaining emotional stability through moderate exercise and talking about feelings to relieve stress, adhering to a regular sleep schedule to ensure sufficient rest, consuming adequate high-quality protein and vitamins in the diet, and avoiding excessive washing or pulling of the hair can help reduce contributing factors that worsen hair loss.
