Trichotillomania, or hair pulling, is a chronic condition involving pulling one’s own hair that often results in hair loss on the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, pubic area, face, arms, legs, and/or other body parts. It is sometimes accompanied by a feeling of tension, that can feel relieved during or after pulling. Trichotillomania is categorized as a body focused repetitive behavior, often called “BFRBs” by researchers, clinicians, and others in the BFRB community. Trich can cause significant stress, anxiety, and self-esteem issues. Trich often initially presents in childhood, but it can effect an individual at any age. Someone suffering with trich can try very hard to “stop” pulling, but it is often extremely difficult to reduce or resist the “urge” to pull. Sometimes we can find ourselves in the middle of pulling without even realizing we began doing it! It is not uncommon for individuals to spend large amounts of time on pulling behaviors, as well as attempt to conceal or hide hair loss. Sometime these avoidant strategies by themselves cause impairment and additional stress.

Trichotillomania is a condition that can be treated with an adapted version of Habit Reversal Training. This is a behavioral treatment that focuses on 1) awareness, 2) environmental triggers, 3) competing responses, 4) education about trichotillomania, and 5) self-esteem building and identity development.

It is not only important to build self-efficacy in managing pulling, but also building self-esteem and identity in areas outside of trich, such as hobbies, interpersonal skills, personal passions, academic performance, and roles in family and community. Patients are not just someone who struggles with hair pulling, but also a great sister, grandson, friend, soccer player, artist, mathematician, etc.!

It is important to know that a “cure” for body focused repetitive behaviors, such as trich, does not exist; HRT is system that adds ‘tools to your toolbelt’ to better manage unwanted behaviors/habits and improve quality of life.

Dr. Lazaroe trained in HRT for trichotillomania at both the University of Florida and University of South Florida Rothman Center. Contact her today to set up a consult.

Please view our Treatment Programs page to learn more about the treatment programs offered at our clinic, including our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), as well as our Team page to learn more about our background, practice, and core therapy values.