The first week of October is Trichollitlomania awareness week. Many Americans frequently experience a little-known disorder; according to research, 5 and 10 million people in the United States meet the clinical criteria. So what exactly is it? What are the symptoms? What are the causes, and when should you see a hair health professional? Let’s find out everything you need to know.1
What Is Trichotillomania?
Trichotillomania, or trich, is an irresistible hair pulling. Someone experiencing trich may feel an overwhelming sense of tension, then relief after pulling out their hair. Typically this refers to head hair but is also common for the eyebrows, eyelashes, and genital area.
After pulling the hair, a person may feel relieved after tension is released. While the causes aren’t fully understood, it is commonly linked to stress and a subconscious reaction to stressful situations. So what are some of the symptoms?
What Are The Symptoms Of Trichotillomania?
Common trich symptoms include:
- Irresistible hair-pulling urge
- Pulling on your hair in stressful situations without knowing you’re doing it
- Bald patches
- Shame and low self-esteem as a result of the bald patches
While this disorder is not well known, there are millions of others currently experiencing trich, as we want to raise awareness surrounding the issue. Low esteem correlates strongly with trich due to the bald patches often left behind.
Why Are The Causes?
While the exact cause of trichotillomania isn’t known, studies suggest a strong link between behavior and stress. It’s a stress reduction method many of us use subconsciously; you’ve heard the phrase, “I was pulling my hair out,” regarding something stressful, right? Well, that’s trich. Some other common causes could include:
- Stress reduction method
- Deal with anxiety
- Chemical imbalance in the brain
- Hormone changes (puberty)
Summary
Throughout his week, we will spread awareness of this lesser-known but problematic disorder. And hope this blog post sheds some light on the causes of symptoms and what trich is. Thankfully many things can be done to limit the effects of and even prevent trich.
For example, habit reversal training, keeping a diary of hair-pulling habits, identifying triggers, and using a stress ball are all methods of treating trich. If you or someone you know is struggling with trichotillomania, we can help. Click here to schedule a free consultation.
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