How to get rid of Trichtollomania - #20675

Hello,

Yes—trichotillomania is already a recognized medical diagnosis. It’s a mental health condition , not just a habit.

It is strongly linked to anxiety, OCD-spectrum disorders, and neurological factors, and can be worsened by brain injury.

Genetics can increase risk, but it’s not purely hereditary.

Key points: Eyelash pulling is common and medically recognized It’s driven by nervous system dysregulation, not willpower There is no single blood test, but diagnosis is clinical Treatment exists and symptoms can improve

Best-supported treatments: Habit Reversal Therapy (HRT) – first-line treatment Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Medications (sometimes helpful): SSRIs, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), or others based on symptoms Managing anxiety and neurological triggers is essential

I trust this helps Thank you

Hello sir Yes the condition is completely treatable.it is associated with eyelid pulling along with ocd. Treatment options include Behavioral adjustment therapy Antipsychotic medication Sertraline Please share the result with psychiatrist for better clarity Regards

Trichotillomania is indeed a diagnosable condition and is recognized as a mental health disorder. It’s classified under “Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders” in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). Trichotillomania involves recurrent, irresistible urges to pull out hair from your scalp, eyebrows, or other areas of the body, despite trying to stop. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, especially if they’re impacting your daily life, it’s important to seek evaluation from a healthcare professional. Management involves a combination of therapy, medications, and sometimes lifestyle modifications. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), particularly a form called habit reversal training, is effective for many individuals with this condition. Medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or other psychiatric medications might be prescribed, depending on the severity and specific needs. Addressing underlying anxiety or co-occurring disorders is also crucial as they can exacerbate trichotillomania. It’s a good idea to monitor potential triggers or patterns associated with the hair-pulling urges. Creating a distraction or finding an alternative activity when the urge arises can be helpful. Although research on hereditary aspects is ongoing, there is evidence that genetics can play a role, so it’s worth discussing any family history with your physician. Coordination with a mental health specialist familiar with dermatological compulsion disorders would be beneficial.

Best is to visit a psychiatrist.

Hello Tamika I understand your concern about trichotillomania, especially if it seems to run in families. Trichotillomania is indeed recognized as a mental health condition characterized by the compulsive urge to pull out one’s hair, which can lead to noticeable hair loss and distress.

While it can be associated with anxiety or stress, it is classified as a type of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Diagnosis typically involves a mental health professional assessing the behavior, its impact on daily life, and any underlying issues.

If you or someone you know is struggling with this condition, it’s important to consult a mental health professional who can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend treatment options, such as therapy or support groups.

Thank you

Hello Tamika, thank you for sharing your concern. For a proper diagnosis of this condition, the patient needs proper evaluation. The evaluation will be done by talking to the patient, by doing a mental assessment. Kindly visit a certified Psychiatrist or a Family Physician for the same.

Feel free to reach out again.

Regards, Dr. Nirav Jain MBBS, DNB D.Fam.Medicine