Millions of Americans are affected by seasonal affective disorder (SAD) which can negatively impact their quality of life. In fact, anywhere from .5% to 3% of the general population is affected by this disorder. SAD is a form of depression and can create a lot of obstacles for those suffering from it, but can it also be contributing to your hair loss?
What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
As the name suggests, seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression that correlates to the seasons. This is usually something that occurs in the fall and winter months as we get less daylight. A reverse form of SAD in the spring and summer is also possible – though it is comparatively rare.
Some of the symptoms include:
- oversleeping
- sluggishness
- and difficulty concentrating
Those suffering from bipolar disorder are more prone to experiencing seasonal affective disorder. There are medications and treatments to help treat SAD (including light therapy).
Can Weather Changes Cause Hair To Fall Out?
A change in weather itself doesn’t necessarily have an adverse effect on your hair… but it can cultivate a harsher environment for your hair. The colder months have lower humidity and – as a result – create a dryer environment that can lead to brittle, damaged hair. This can increase your risk of temporary hair loss which could become permanent if not properly addressed.
That said, a study has shown that women on average shed the most hair in summer followed at a distant second by spring. Warm weather activities such as swimming in chlorinated water can also make hair brittle but can be countered with proper haircare.
Can Depression Cause Hair Loss?
We all understand that depression affects us mentally and emotionally… but it also affects us physically. Depression causing persistent negative feelings and affecting you similarly to the symptoms of SAD can potentially reduce the anagen (or hair growth) phase in your hair’s four phases.
The results of a shortened hair growth phase are ultimately hair loss disproportionate to the amount of hair you grew. It is also important to note that some antidepressants have the side effect of potential hair loss. While the team at RHRLI is dedicated to giving you advice on how to avoid hair loss, it is important to make a well-informed decision with your doctor on how to treat serious illnesses such as depression.
Does Hair Loss From Depression Grow Back?
Typically, hair loss from depression is not permanent. That said, when hair loss goes untreated it could potentially lead to permanent damage of the scalp depending on the source of the hair loss. In those instances, the hair loss may be permanent. Most antidepressants that can cause hair loss will stop and eventually reverse once the dosage is lowered or the medication is changed.
Don’t Let SAD Keep You Down! RHRLI Can Help Restore Your Hair
Every patient is different so the best way to evaluate whether hair restoration procedures will work for you is to talk to a physician who specializes in hair restoration. Here at RHRLI, we utilize the ARTAS® system in our state-of-the-art facility to provide a minimally invasive solution to hair thinning or loss. We can assess whether robotic hair restoration is the right treatment for you. Contact us today for a free consultation and get started on your hair restoration journey.