Trichotillomania, commonly known as hair-pulling disorder, is characterized by recurrent pulling out of one's own hair resulting in noticeable hair loss. It is thought to be a chronic condition often beginning in childhood that may be associated with underlying mood disorders like anxiety or OCD. Treatment typically involves cognitive behavioral therapy to help manage triggers and develop coping strategies, and sometimes medication is used to reduce anxiety symptoms. Combining therapy and medication is often the most effective approach.
2.
“recurrent pulling out of one’s own hair for
pleasure, gratification, or release of tension that
results in noticeable hair loss,” (Hanna, 1997).
3.
Thought that there may be an underlying
mood disorder that encourages the pulling
behavior (Anxiety/OCD)
This disorder is chronic but has times of
remission
Often begins during childhood
4.
places commonly pulled from are, the scalp,
eyebrows, eyelashes, and pubic hair.
Some people may examine the hair, count the
hairs, save the hairs, suck/eat the hairs, hide
the hairs after pulling (Hannah, 1997).
It can be a conscious or subconscious behavior.
5.
There is little known about the etiology
Can be due to a lack of stimulation during
activities such as homework or reading.
Thought to be tied to the stress levels of a
person and built up tension.
Can be triggered by a major life event (a
divorce, starting school etc).
6.
A study done showed 45% of the children
examined began pulling their hair after some
sort of major life event (Hannah, 1997).
There is thought to be genetic ties with the
disorder.
7.
medication is thought to be helpful for calming
those symptoms of anxiety or OCD down to a
more manageable level.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is often
suggested to help people learn how to deal
with the disorder.
8.
Thought that a combination of medication and
therapy is most effective.
A study done by Mor, for children suffering
from an anxiety disorder rates of improvement
were high for those who received both
cognitive behavior therapy along with a
medication (2009).
9.
Focuses on looking for patterns with the
disorder.
Teaches breathing exercises, muscle relaxation,
role playing, and distractions to implement
when a person pulls.
10.
Focuses on looking for patterns with the
disorder.
Teaches breathing exercises, muscle relaxation,
role playing, and distractions to implement
when a person pulls.
