Why am I pulling my hair out?
Stressed? Anxious? Experiencing Trauma? These are all triggers for pulling your hair out and is categorized as the Psychological disorder, Trichotillomania.
Trichotillomania
A Psychological disorder characterized by the recurrent and irresistible urge to pull out one's own hair. It is classified as an impulse control disorder and is often considered a type of body-focused repetitive behavior (BFRB). Trichotillomania can result in noticeable hair loss, which can lead to distress and impairment in various areas of life.
Here are some key points about trichotillomania:
Hair Pulling
Trichotillomania involves the repetitive act of pulling out hair from the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or other areas of the body. People with trichotillomania often have an overwhelming urge to pull their hair and may experience a sense of relief or gratification when doing so.
Tension and Arousal
Hair pulling is usually preceded by a buildup of tension or anxiety. The act of pulling the hair provides a sense of relief or pleasure, but it is often followed by feelings of guilt, shame, or regret.
Impact on Appearance
Trichotillomania can lead to noticeable hair loss, resulting in irregular patches of missing hair or bald spots. The hair loss may be more prominent in areas where the individual tends to pull the hair. In some cases, individuals may attempt to hide their hair loss by wearing wigs, hats, or using makeup.
Psychological Impact
Trichotillomania can have a significant impact on an individual's emotional well-being and quality of life. It may lead to feelings of embarrassment, shame, or low self-esteem. It can also cause distress in social situations and interfere with daily functioning.
Comorbidity
Trichotillomania often coexists with other mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorders, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or skin picking disorder (dermatillomania).
Treatment
Treatment for trichotillomania typically involves a combination of therapeutic approaches. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is commonly used, focusing on identifying and modifying the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors associated with hair pulling. Habit reversal training (HRT) is another technique that aims to replace hair pulling with alternative behaviors. In some cases, medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), may be prescribed to help manage symptoms.
If you suspect you may have trichotillomania or are experiencing hair pulling behaviors, it is recommended to seek help from a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, who can provide an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your needs.
If you’re not sure how to obtain the care of a Psychologist or Psychiatrist, start by calling your insurance company or looking up your plan online. There you will be able to find out what your coverage is, what providers participate in your plan, and who is accepting new patients near you.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for a medical diagnosis.
