Overcoming Trichotillomania: Seeking Help, Treating the Underlying Issues, and Finding Strength

Hi, I'm a 14-year-old girl who has struggled with trichotillomania since I was 8. I'm considering buzz-cutting my hair to take control of this disorder. However, I know my parents wouldn't approve. If you have faced similar challenges, how do you deal with the consequences of getting in trouble constantly?

The best thing to do is to seek professional treatment. Trichotillomania, or hair pulling disorder, can stem from a variety of reasons, including anxiety, stress, and low self-esteem. A therapist can help you understand the root causes and create a personalized treatment plan that suits your needs best.

Fixing Underlying Problems

One approach is to focus on the underlying issues. Don't graduate from hair pulling to cutting because you may face even more severe consequences. Instead, try to control the area where you pull from to avoid drawing attention in public. Remember, I had the disorder at 9 and was fine until I was 57, experiencing a relapse without any visible evidence on my eyebrows.

Consulting a Professional

Consult with the professional who diagnosed and treated your condition. If no such help has been sought yet, it's crucial to get a full assessment from both primary medical care providers and a qualified mental health professional. This can pinpoint any medical causes and lead you to the appropriate specialist for further treatment.

Using Self-Affirmations

Another effective method is to use repetitive self-affirmations to break the habit. For example:

I always take great care of keeping my hair and making it look good!

Repeat this statement to yourself or aloud whenever you have a moment. Doing so consistently can help rewire your brain and gradually replace the habit with a healthier one. Be patient and persistent; it takes time to see results.

Seeking Support from School and Family

If talking to your parents directly is too daunting, consider seeking support from your school nurse and guidance counselor. They can help you communicate your concerns to your parents and take you to your pediatrician for further evaluation. Your pediatrician can then refer you to the appropriate specialist if needed.

Addressing Underlying Causes

To fully overcome trichotillomania, you need to address the underlying emotional and behavioral issues. Ask yourself some important questions and consider seeking help from a holistic therapist. Techniques such as EFT (emotional freedom technique) can be very effective in releasing buried emotions and behaviors.

Consider these questions:

The answers to these questions can provide insights into the root causes of your trichotillomania and help you develop healthier coping mechanisms. Remember, your beliefs can influence your behavior, and by changing your beliefs, you can change your life.

The hair is a connection to the Universe, God, or your higher self and soul. Feeling disconnected from these can lead to the onset of trichotillomania. Addressing these connections and exploring your spirituality may also help in your journey to recovery.

Conclusion

Trichotillomania is a complex disorder that requires a multi-faceted approach to overcome. While buzz-cutting your hair may be seen as a form of control, it's essential to address the underlying issues and seek professional help. By doing so, you can reclaim your power and live a fulfilling life free from the constraints of this disorder.