Trichotillomania, also referred to as “hair-pulling disorder,” is a mental disorder classified under Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders and involves recurrent, irresistible urges to pull hair from the scalp, eyebrows, eyelids, and other areas of the body, despite repeated attempts to stop or decrease hair pulling.
You may have heard of this disorder but there are a few things you might not know.
It’s Not Always Scalp Hair That is Affected
While Trichotillomania is often associated with those who pull their hair from the head, that is not always where it manifests. In fact, some people with the disorder will pull hair from their eyebrows and pull out their eyelashes.
It is Not Always a Waking Disorder
Many people pull their hair out and realize what they are doing, even if they are compelled to want to stop. However, there are others that do not even realize what they are doing and will pull their hair out in their sleep.
There Are a Variety of Causes
The reason why a person may have this disorder is unique to their own situation. In fact, there is not one specific cause of Trichotillomania. In fact, onset of Trichotillomania can start in childhood or even as an adult.
There is Treatment Available
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is one of the treatments that may help with those who have the Trichotillomania disorder. This type of therapy is meant to separate thoughts, physical feelings, and actions. It also means to work on changing these types of thoughts and behavior.
The Damage is Real
One of the major problems with Trichotillomania is that it causes real, physical damage to the person suffering from it. Some may have skin disorders, skin infections, and even dental issues for those who bite their hair.
If you are suffering from Trichotillomania, we understand that you may have self-esteem issues with hair loss. The best way to find out what we can do to help is to schedule a free, no obligation hair loss evaluation with a Transitions of Wisconsin hair loss professional. If you’re interested in scheduling a free consultation, contact us today!
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