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This longitudinal case-control study involving 36 children and adolescents with alopecia areata (AA) and 60 healthy controls examined the psychological factors contributing to AA, focusing on stress-related events and psychiatric symptoms before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study found that children with AA experienced more stressful life events, particularly separation-related, before hair loss onset, and had higher levels of depression, emotional, peer problems, and ADHD symptoms. During the pandemic, anxiety and depressive symptoms increased significantly. The study suggests that specific psychological stressors, especially separation-related events, may be linked to the onset and course of AA, highlighting the importance of considering both psychological and dermatological dimensions in treatment strategies. Despite the pandemic's stress, some AA cases showed significant or complete hair regrowth, particularly those related to exam stress and conflicts with friends. The findings underscore the association between AA and depression, with AA patients at higher risk for depression, which can be both a predisposing and initiating factor for AA.

The study surveyed 101 adults experiencing chemotherapy-induced hair loss to assess disparities in counseling and resource access. It identified 11 themes, including emotional distress and financial barriers, highlighting inadequate counseling and inconsistent information about hair loss prevention and management. Patients often received vague or misleading information, leading to distress and dissatisfaction. The study emphasizes the need for standardized, empathetic counseling and improved resource availability to enhance patient satisfaction and outcomes. It calls for anticipatory communication and shared decision-making to support patient autonomy, identifying opportunities to improve counseling practices and supportive oncology services.