Trichotillomania

Trichotillomania, also known as Hair-Pulling Disorder, is a mental health condition characterized by the recurrent, irresistible urge to pull out one’s own hair, leading to noticeable hair loss and significant emotional distress. Individuals with trichotillomania may pull hair from the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or other areas of the body. The behaviour can be conscious or unconscious, and is often triggered by feelings of anxiety, boredom, stress, or even relaxation. For some, the act of hair pulling provides a sense of relief or gratification, while for others, it may feel completely out of their control.

​

Common signs and features include:

• Noticeable hair thinning or bald spots

• Repeated attempts to stop or reduce hair-pulling behavior

• Rituals or habits around hair pulling (e.g., inspecting, playing with, or eating the hair)

• Avoidance of social situations due to embarrassment or shame

​

Trichotillomania often begins in late childhood or adolescence, and can fluctuate in intensity over time. It may co-occur with other conditions such as anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder.

​

Treatment typically includes Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), especially a form called Habit Reversal Training (HRT), which helps individuals become more aware of triggers and replace hair-pulling with alternative coping strategies. Mindfulness-based therapies and, in some cases, medication may also be helpful.