Hair pulling

Trichotillomania – Hair Pulling

Trichotillomania (pronounced: trik-oh-till-oh-may-nee-ah) or “hair pulling” is a type of psychological condition that involves strong urges to pull out one’s own hair.  It is often described as a type of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Trichotillomania/hair pulling affects at least 2 per cent of the population – and affects more girls than guys. Most people who have it develop it during adolescence, but Trichotillomania can start in kids as young as 1 year old.  It is most common to pull out hair from the scalp or face (eyelashes or eyebrows) because it’s easily accessible, but many pull out body hair, too.

Trichotillomania is not a very well known condition and is not an obvious disorder as it is often hidden. As a result, people with Trichotillomania have to overcome numerous barriers to get treatment and support.

Although it’s defined as a psychological problem, research has shown Trichotillomania can sometimes be associated with depression, anxiety and other problems.