I am devastated after finding a bald patch at 47 – is stress causing it?

DEAR DEIDRE: I AM a woman of 47 and have a bald patch on my head.

I am devastated. I have had lots of ill health but my hair was my crowning glory.

There have been some tough years as my husband cheated on me ten years ago. Last year I lost my mum and had to clear her house – my childhood home.

I have developed an OCD problem during lockdown, which makes me frightened to go out, and I’ve got numerous other health issues on top of everything else.

When I found a big clump of hair in the shower I realised I’d got a bald patch.

I called my friend, who said it is probably stress causing it. Is she right?

DEIDRE SAYS: Yes, it probably is. But as you have other health issues, you would be wise to talk to your doctor.

Also speak to your hairdresser about a style that would help you feel less self-conscious. My support pack, Losing Your Hair, gives details on organisations that can help.

As you haven’t got over your husband’s infidelity, you will find help in my support pack Cheating – Can You Get Over It? too.

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