Trichotillomania Treatment

trichotillomania treatment

Trichotillomania (TTM) is an obsessive-compulsive disorder characterized by compulsive hair-pulling. It has a profound impact on an individual’s quality of life and happiness. Although there is no single cause for TTM, it is likely the result of a combination of genetics and environmental factors. Some researchers believe that Trichotillomania is closely related to the feeling of good and happy, as well as certain triggers.

As a result of excessive hair pulling, sufferers may develop bald spots or patches on their scalp. These patches may be uneven in shape or affect one side more than the other. Sufferers may conceal the problem by wearing hats, scarves, false eyelashes, or even permanent eyebrows. In severe cases, sufferers may even try to hide their condition by avoiding social situations, resulting in severe self-esteem and shame. In some severe cases, patients may even go as far as to swallow hair. The problem may also cause health problems.

In addition to medical treatment, the treatment can also involve a supportive environment for the sufferer. It is important to seek treatment from a psychiatrist with expertise in this disorder. Medications are often used to help treat this disorder, and the OCD Center of Los Angeles can refer patients to qualified psychiatrists. The treatment process for Trichotillomania may involve a psychiatric evaluation and other psychological procedures.

Although the exact cause of Trichotillomania is unknown, some studies have shown that hormonal changes in pregnancy may be a trigger. This is based on a 2013 case study that suggested a relationship between hormone levels and trichotillomania. However, more research is needed before concluding whether a particular hormone may influence a person’s occurrence of Trichotillomania. Environmental factors are also believed to be a factor, although no known causes have been identified.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for Trichotillomania is a proven way to treat the disorder. It begins with an assessment of factors associated with hair-pulling, which is conducted in the initial session. The next step in this treatment is completing self-monitoring forms that help patients monitor how they pull their hair. This has been proven to reduce hair-pulling significantly. The goal of CBT for Trichotillomania is to create an environment where the onset of the disorder can be controlled.

There is no single medication that is approved by the FDA for the treatment of Trichotillomania. However, some drugs are available in the market that may help. Tricyclic antidepressants, like Anafranil, have shown positive results in treating the condition. Other drugs like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors have limited benefits and significant side effects. So, when deciding on a treatment for Trichotillomania, it is important to know what to expect from each of them.

The latest DSM lists Trichotillomania under the category of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), but the conditions are not the same. Instead, it is better classified as body-focused repetitive behavior. It used to be considered a disorder of impulse control. As its symptoms became more severe, treatment for Trichotillomania was more difficult and expensive. Although more women are diagnosed with this disorder than men, more women sought treatment for it due to the social stigma.

While there is no known cure for Trichotillomania, treatment for Trichotillomania has made significant strides. In addition to psychotherapy, medications and education can reduce symptoms. In addition to counseling, patients can participate in support groups that can help them cope with challenges and overcome their compulsive hair-pulling behavior. So, there is a long way to go before a complete cure for Trichotillomania is discovered.

While Trichotillomania is a chronic and incurable disease, cognitive behavioral therapy is the most successful form of treatment for it. A therapist can help patients understand the underlying reasons for hair-pulling and restructure distorted thinking. Behavioral therapy can also help patients learn to deal with the stressful situations in their lives. Habit Reversal Training is a gold standard for Trichotillomania treatment. The technique targets specific triggers and teaches patients how to control their urges.

If your hair-pulling habits are interfering with your social life, you may need to seek out Trichotillomania treatment. Trichotillomania is a chronic disorder that can cause significant distress and social isolation. To overcome Trichotillomania, you need to seek professional treatment. Therapy and medication are two common forms of treatment. You may need a combination of both. Trichotillomania is an obsessive-compulsive disorder that is treated with medication and therapy.