Trichotillomania: Understanding, Recognizing, & Treating Hair-Pulling Disorder

What is Trichotillomania?

Trichotillomania, or “hair-pulling disorder,” is a mental health condition where individuals experience a recurrent, irresistible urge to pull out their hair. This behavior often becomes chronic, leading to noticeable hair loss, emotional distress, and challenges in daily life.

Common Symptoms

  • Repetitive Hair Pulling: Persistent pulling of hair from the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or other body areas.
  • Visible Hair Loss: Noticeable bald patches or thinning hair resulting from repeated pulling.
  • Ritualistic Behaviors: Specific routines or patterns (e.g., repetitive tugging) that accompany hair pulling until a sense of relief is achieved.
  • Emotional Distress: Feelings of anxiety, guilt, or shame during and after hair-pulling episodes.
  • Difficulty Controlling the Urge: Repeated, unsuccessful attempts to stop the behavior despite a strong desire to do so.

Effects on Daily Life

  • Physical Impact: Chronic pulling may cause skin irritation, infections, scarring, and visible hair loss.
  • Emotional Well-being: Low self-esteem, emotional distress, and potential isolation.
  • Social & Occupational Challenges: The physical signs and emotional burden can affect relationships, work performance, and overall quality of life.

Treatment with Eric Neithardt, LCSW-R for for Trichotillomania (Hair Pulling)

Eric Neithardt, LCSW-R utilizes the latest evidence-based approaches to support individuals struggling with trichotillomania. As we develop an individualized treatment plan, we may incorporate:

  1. Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)

    Encourages acceptance of urges without acting on them and fosters mindfulness, psychological flexibility, and commitment to personal values.

  2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

    Helps identify and change the thoughts and behaviors that contribute to hair pulling, developing healthier coping strategies.

    CBT

  3. Comp B Therapy

    A specialized approach that enhances self-monitoring and builds practical behavioral skills to counteract the urge to pull hair.

There is help.

Trichotillomania is challenging but treatable. By understanding its symptoms and utilizing targeted treatments like CBT, Comp B, and ACT, individuals can take significant steps toward managing their symptoms and improving quality of life. I welcome the opportunity to support you on your journey toward healing and growth.

Move forward