How to Overcome Trichotillomania

If you are among the estimated 2.5 to 8 million Americans with trichotillomania, you don't need to feel ashamed, isolated or destined for eternal baldness. Chances are, you've dealt silently with the impulsive urge to pull or pluck your hair, thinking no one could possibly understand. Now classified as an impulse-control disorder, trichotillomania can be successfully managed, and you can overcome the behavioral symptoms.

Instructions

• 1

  Recognize trichotillomania-"trich"-for what it is not. It is not a character flaw, and it's not as uncommon as you might think. The most difficult part of overcoming the behaviors associated with trich is making the decision to seek help. Most adult patients hide the condition for years and deny or cover up the true cause of hair loss when questioned.

• 2

  Learn about trich through such nonprofit organizations as The Trichotillomania Learning Center and Mental Health America. Almost unheard of 20 years ago, trichotillomania, which refers to the compulsive twisting, pulling and breaking of hair, has emerged as a common condition worthy of discussion and research.

• 3

  Assess your habits. Identify the triggers to your pulling behaviors, including when and where you are most likely to pull and any emotional responses you experience prior to pulling. Develop strategies to deal with triggers and to replace emotional responses.

• 4

  Seek professional treatment. Many trich sufferers attempt-and some succeed- to stop their behaviors on their own. However, the most effective long-term treatments appear to be a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy and medications, facilitated by a trained professional. Complementary therapies, such as relaxation techniques, hypnosis and diet therapy, may also be helpful and can be incorporated into prescribed treatment regimens.

• 5

  Join a support network. Share news with fellow trich sufferers. TLC provides links to local and national resources that fit any personality and lifestyle: educational conferences, research studies, group therapy sessions, peer meetings, even blogs and chatrooms.

• 6

  Use setbacks as opportunities to develop future strategies. By honestly analyzing your habits, triggers, weaknesses and strengths, you can learn to manage impulsive behaviors, stop compulsive behaviors and plan alternative coping techniques for obsessive behaviors.