In a landmark research project published this year, researchers found that not only is hair pigmentation adversely affected by stress, but - within a certain age range - the follicle can begin growing colored hair again should the stress be alleviated.
This study showed that while new, premature greying may be reversed, longstanding greyed hair for those in an older age bracket will not be reversible. The reason premature greying can be reversed for some is as the name suggests - the hair follicles are not yet mature.
For hair follicles that have reached natural maturation and lost color, greying can simply be attributed to the expected effect of time on the human body, rather than stress. For those that can reverse greying hair caused by stress, know that this effect is temporary. With the gradual progression of time, those same hairs will become grey or white again with age.
What is more concerning than natural aging, is premature greying. This is because of the dangerous effect that long-term stress has on the human body. Stress is your body's chemical response to harmful situations, real or perceived. In temporary instances, stress can be beneficial as it allows you to act in a way to prevent injury. What causes stress can vary widely from person to person - ranging from personal tragedy to an irritating boss. Stress becomes dangerous if it becomes chronic. If you have long standing stress, what is most important is identifying your personal stressors and working to reduce their impact.
The symptoms of prolonged stress are systemic, so greying hair is simply only one outward signal of the damage done to your body. Other symptoms of chronic stress beyond possible greying are both mental and physical.
Most prevalent physical symptoms may include: low energy, Headaches, gastrointestinal issues, tense and painful muscles, chest pain, a rapid heartbeat, insomnia, decreased immune system, nervousness, shaking, ringing ears, cold or clammy limbs, dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, a clenched jaw or tooth grinding. When dealt with long term, these symptoms can result in more serious health concerns.
Common cognitive and behavioral symptoms may include: emotional sensitivity, control issues, decreased calm, low self-esteem, depression, social reclusion, anxiety, impaired memory, an inability to focus, poor judgment, pessimism, changes in appetite, procrastination, substance abuse, stimming, or self harm. While not limited to these symptoms, these are the most prevalent effects of chronic stress.
What can one do? That depends on your health. Always seek the help of a medical professional for severe symptoms. However, if you are in an early, undiagnosed stage of prolonged stress, there are a few things that may help:
- Toss the stressor! If you can directly remove or alleviate your source of stress, that should be your first step. If you cannot, reframing negative thoughts with the help of a therapist may also be beneficial.
- Don't over eat. Some studies have shown that maintaining a lower caloric intake can positively affect aging and stress.
- Exercise. While exercise increases physical health overall, the endorphins released during physical exertion can directly help to reduce the body's stress response.
- Invest time in emotionally supportive things - especially those that make you feel loved or grateful. Positive emotions are shown to be beneficial for mitochondria. Perhaps that is why we have more energy when we feel good!