What is trichotillomania and how is it treated?

Trichotillomania, or more commonly, hair pulling, is considered an impulse control disorder. It is the irresistible urge to pull out one’s hair from any area of the body including the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, and pubic area, resulting in noticeable hair loss. Hair pulling is the inability to stop this behavior. Urges increase at times of stress with individuals unaware that they are engaging in the hair pulling behavior.

Two methods of anxiety treatment that have been found to be most effective are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication, generally used in combination; but therapy is essential as the symptoms return when medication is stopped.

Anxiety Institute is a clinical research center specializing in treatment of acute anxiety disorders that uses advanced, proven techniques while nurturing the patient in their local home environment. Utilizing the most up-to-date, evidence-based treatments, our intensive services focus on treating teens and young adults, while coaching the parents who guide them. Anxiety Institute is located in Madison, New Jersey; Greenwich, Connecticut; and McLean, VA.

[tylerdean]

I don't think this is a wildly known disorder so its helpful to have a concise explanation of it

[evelynmerritt]

Hair pulling can happen anywhere on the body, not just the head, and people may not even realize they are doing it. Habit reversal therapy, as explained, seems really effective.

[LifeWithPaige-svoz]

i have a really big bald spot, i'm asking for help and their telling me that i should just stop it and it's my own fault. what would you recommend, i'm so embarrassed going to school i feel hideous, when im trying to hide it and i ask my friends if it's noticeable, i've had people laugh and say if i have cancer. what do i do?! i can't stop!