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If you pull compulsively on hairs on your body, you might be suffering from trichotillomania. Here we explain what trichotillomania is and how it can be treated.
What is trichotillomania?
Trichotillomania involves repeated hair pulling resulting in noticeable hair loss. The hair pulling can be done from all over the body but the most common areas are the eyebrows, eyelashes, scalp and genitals. Some people pull hair from other people or objects such as clothes or toys. They may watch, play with, and/or swallow hairs, which requires medical attention at times.
The causes of trichotillomania are a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Trichotillomania can co-exist with other mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, dysmorphophobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and autism spectrum disorder.
Self-harm is sometimes confused with trichotillomania. Individuals with trichotillomania are driven by compulsions rather than a deep emotional pain that sometimes results in self-injury.
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How common is trichotillomania?
Studies of adults have shown that between 0.6% and 3.4% of the population have the diagnosis. Trichotillomania is ten times more common in women than men, and the average age of onset is between 9 and 13 (Mental Health America, 2024).
Trichotillomania and ADHD
Studies have shown that trichotillomania is more common in people who also have ADHD. If you have ADHD, it is important to seek separate help for trichotillomania, as it requires a different course of treatment than ADHD alone.
Symptoms of trichotillomania
If you suffer from trichotillomania, you have probably tried to unsuccessfully stop the behavior. People with Trichotillomania describe an inner tension or sense of pressure that is released with the hair pulling. More symptoms include:
- Anxiety or restlessness before beginning the behavior of hair pulling
- Hair pulling can be both intentional and unconscious
- It is most commonly from the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes and genitals, but can also be from toys or other people.
- People look for a particular hair to pull and may examine, play with or swallow the hair.
If you recognize the symptoms of trichotillomania, you may want to seek help. We have psychologists at Lavendla who have experience treating hair pulling disorder and are ready to support you.
Treatment of trichotillomania
The most effective treatment for trichotillomania is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Treatment techniques have also been combined with stimulus control and Habit Reversal Training (HRT). HRT has also been studied with the addition of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) or dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and has been helpful. It has been found that it is important to follow up the treatment to ensure that the effect is maintained over time.
HRT treatment consists of three parts:
- Mindfulness training
- Countermovement training
- Social support.
Trichotilloomania is a condition that comes in different degrees of severity. Milder problems can be treated in therapy using HRT, while more severe forms may require medications as well as more intensive therapies. Medical care may also be needed if physical problems such as infections occur due to the hair pulling.
Seeking help can change your life
Trichotillomania is not something you have to deal with on your own. Talking to a licensed psychologist or psychotherapist can not only help you understand your condition better but also offer effective ways to manage it.
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Common misconceptions about therapy
Many people think that therapy is only for severe cases of mental illness or that seeking help is a weakness. In both cases, these are misconceptions. Therapy is a step towards improvement and self-understanding, and has become extremely popular in recent years for individuals who are simply looking for someone to talk to.
Your next step
If you or someone you know is struggling with hair pulling, it’s a wise idea to talk to a professional therapist or psychologist. All of our therapists and psychologists are qualified and your conversation is always confidential. Don’t be afraid to take the first step.
Living with trichotillomania can be a daily struggle but fortunately there is help available. With the right support and tools, you can significantly improve your quality of life. If you are ready to take the plunge, we’re here to support you. Book your first session today and start your journey towards a better future.
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12 frequently asked questions about trichotillomania
What is trichotillomania?
Trichotillomania involves repeated hair pulling resulting in noticeable hair loss. The hair pulling can be done from all over the body but the most common areas are the eyebrows, eyelashes, scalp and genitals.
How is trichotillomania diagnosed?
A diagnosis of trichotillomania is usually made by a psychologist or psychiatrist through various tests and assessments. This may include questionnaires and clinical interviews.
Is trichotillomania hereditary?
Research shows that trichotillomania may have a genetic component but it is not the only factor. Environmental factors also play a role.
What are the symptoms of trichotillomania?
Symptoms are hair pulling from all over the body but the most common are eyebrows, eyelashes, scalp and genitals. People often look for hairs that stick out, but they can also pull hair from other people or things like clothes or toys. They often watch, play and/or swallow hairs.
How is trichotillomania treated?
Treatment can include a form of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) called habit reversal training (HRT) and stimulus control which has been shown to be particularly effective. It may also be helpful to add acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) or dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
Is there a cure for trichotillomania?
With proper treatment, symptoms can improve significantly but it is important to monitor results over time.
Can children get trichotillomania?
Yes, children and teenagers are affected. The average age of onset is between 9 and 13 years old. It is important to seek professional help as soon as possible for the best possible treatment outcome.
How common is trichotillomania?
Studies of adults have shown that between 0.6% and 3.4% of the population are diagnosed.
Does trichotillomania affect my ability to work?
Yes, in severe cases, trichotillomania can lead to work disability. However, it is possible to return to normal function with proper treatment.
Is trichotillomania more common among women or men?
Trichotillomania is ten times more common in women than men.
Can you have other problems at the same time as trichotillomania?
It is also common to have other psychological conditions such as anxiety, depression, dysmorphophobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, autism and ADHD. It is important to get an assessment by a licensed professional.
How do I get help with my trichotillomania?
Through our site, you can book an initial session with a therapist or psychologist to describe your problems and start planning treatment.
What does treatment for trichotillomania involve?
It’s a step in the right direction to decide to take control of how you feel. Here is an overview of the steps typically involved in treatment for trichotillomania.
Step 1: An initial assessment session
The first meeting with your psychologist or therapist is an assessment of your mental and physical health. You may be asked questions about your life situation, feelings, thoughts and behaviors. You may also be asked to complete assessment forms.
Step 2: Goal setting
This is where you and your therapist set concrete goals for the therapy, both short and long term. They can define which areas of your life are most affected by your wellbeing and how you would like to change them.
Step 4: Treatment with different techniques and tools
This is the actual treatment phase, which involves exercises aimed at giving you tools to overcome your problem. Habitual reversal training (HRT) and stimulus control are often used.
Step 5: Monitoring and evaluation
Treatment is monitored regularly to see how well the therapy is working. If necessary, the treatment plan can be adjusted or renewed.
Step 6: Ending and looking ahead
As the therapy comes to an end, it is time to reflect on the progress made. You will also receive a maintenance plan for how to use the tools and strategies you have learned in the future. It is also important to monitor the results over time.
If you or someone close to you is looking for professional help, don’t hesitate to book a session with one of our licensed psychologists or therapists.
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