Trichotillomania is a psychological disorder characterized by repeated, irresistible urges to pull out one's own hair, resulting in visible hair loss. This disorder is part of the obsessive-compulsive disorder group and can affect the hair on the head, eyebrows, eyelashes and other areas of the body. People with trichotillomania often experience increasing tension before hair pulling and relief or satisfaction afterward.
Symptoms and characteristics
- Repeatedly pulling out your own hair , resulting in noticeable hair loss.
- Increasing tension before hair pulling and relief or satisfaction afterward.
- Significant stress or impairment in social, occupational or other important areas of functioning.
- Hair pulling can apply to various parts of the body , including but not limited to the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes.
- Some sufferers experience eating the hair that has been pulled out (trichophagia), which can lead to serious digestive problems.
Causes and risk factors
The exact causes of trichotillomania are not known, but it is believed that a combination of genetic, neurobiological and environmental factors may contribute. Risk factors include:
- Family history of trichotillomania or other obsessive-compulsive disorder.
- Stress or trauma that can serve as a trigger for the behavior.
- Neurochemical factors , including changes in serotonin levels.
Treatment
Treating trichotillomania can be challenging but usually involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) : This form of therapy aims to change the underlying thoughts and behaviors that lead to hair pulling. Techniques such as the Habit Reversal Training (HRT) method are often used to teach sufferers how to recognize their impulses and replace them with other behaviors.
- Medication : In some cases, medications, particularly those used to treat depression and anxiety disorders (e.g., SSRIs), may help relieve symptoms.
- Support groups : Communicating with other sufferers can provide additional emotional support and provide strategies for coping with the disorder.
Dealing with trichotillomania
In addition to professional treatment, it is important that those affected and their families are informed about trichotillomania and learn to deal with the disorder in a supportive and non-judgmental manner. Strategies for managing stress and promoting a positive self-image can also be helpful in improving coping with the disorder.
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