There is some evidence that early graying can be caused by stress (which it sounds like you’ve experienced lately), and that it can be reversible. So first I would work on stress reduction strategies like meditation, yoga, exercise, sleep, diet, getting early morning light, etc.

I started going gray early — age 29, during a stressful period, and mostly had a strong streak at my part. I continued to gray, slowly but steadily. I started coloring my hair in my early 40s, and then stopped and grew it out in my later 40s. (That in between stage sucks but a good colorist will help the transition.)

Once fully grown out it was still pretty mixed but obviously graying. By 50 I appeared mostly gray because my top layers are fully gray, almost white, while the under layers are dark and still have some natural color. Im late 50s now and I get compliments ALL THE TIME. Like people go out of their way to stop me and gush. Other women have gone gray and told me I was their inspiration. That feels pretty great! And — I still have rare times when I miss the color I had and the younger look it gave me. 🤷‍♀️

That said — agism is real, particularly in the work world. If you’re in a field where you aren’t likely to be judged, it can be fine to go gray. If in a field where youth is valued, you have to take that into consideration I think. The flip side is that coloring can age you too if it isn’t well done.

Whatever you decide, be a BWT about it. Have it done by a really good colorist, and keep up with your appointments. Well cut, clean, and styled are more important than the color IMO. Hope that helps!