1. View the Condition as One Disorder or Several
Trichotillomania is a hair-pulling disorder, in which a person plucks out his own hair and has difficultly controlling the behavior. People with trichotillomania usually pluck the hair on their heads, but some pull hair from other parts of their bodies. Health care professionals differ on how to classify trichotillomania, but most consider it a form of psychiatric illness. It can be categorized as an anxiety disorder, an obsessive-compulsive disorder and an impulse control disorder. The cause is unknown, but it is thought that an underlying chemical imbalance in the brain might predispose people to this behavior. The cause may not be the same for every person.
2. Watch for the Signs
Both children and adults can have trichotillomania. Some people with the disorder are unaware that they are pulling their hair, while others do it deliberately. Signs and symptoms include hair loss that may lead to bald patches, chewing on or swallowing plucked hair or rubbing the pulled hair against the face. Some people with trichotillomania try to hide the behavior by doing it secretly or by concealing their hair loss under wigs or hats.
3. Note the Emotional and Physical Risks
Many people with trichotillomania are ashamed of the behavior and their appearance, yet they have great difficultly stopping. The shame and distress caused by the disorder adds to daily stress, leading to feelings of low self-worth and social isolation. Physical risks also are associated with the condition. The hair follicles can sustain permanent damage from repeated pulling. Irritation might lead to sores on the scalp. Additionally, some people with trichotillomania eat the plucked hair, which can build up in the digestive tract to cause life-threatening blockages.
4. Find a Treatment for Every Case
There are several ways to treat trichotillomania. Because the disorder manifests differently in different people, some treatments work better for some than others. One way to address the problem is with cognitive-behavioral therapy, in which the therapist helps the client learn new patterns of self-talk and behavioral management. Another approach is to control anxiety and depression through medication, psychotherapy or a combination of the two. Other ways to reduce anxiety and promote self-awareness include meditation, yoga, biofeedback and relaxation techniques.
5. Reach Out and Find Help
There are many things people living with trichotillomania can do to manage the symptoms. First, get educated about the disorder. Second, be aware of the circumstances in which you pull hair. For example, you may be more likely to pull your hair while reading than while washing the dishes. Third, recognize emotional triggers, such as anxiety, anger or stressful situations, that trigger hair pulling. Fourth, involve other people. Tell friends and family members what you are dealing with and ask them to point out to you whenever you pull your hair. Support groups also may be helpful. Group members can discuss their experiences, offer encouragement and share information and strategies for managing the disorder.
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