Who Has Trichotillomania?
Trichotillomania is a comparatively rare disorder that affects between 1 to 4 % of Americans. Women are more affected by trichotillomania as compared to women. Many people start hair pulling during their adolescence at the age of 12 or 13. But an individual can start hair pulling as soon as age 1 or later stages in life. It is essential to know that this is a real issue and you are definitely not alone. Lots of people suffer from this kind of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).
The Psychological Effects of trichotillomania
Trichotillomania will have a profound effect on your mental health, especially if it is not treated. The psychological effects include increased feelings of anxiety and depression, the feeling of embarrassment and shame, and poor body image or low self-esteem due to skin damage and hair loss. Compulsive hair pulling can also lead to negative effects on social life.
We learn about the reasons for trichotillomania condition and you must figure out the reason for your hair pulling behavior. When you will know the reason, you would be better able to deal with the condition. Dealing with trichotillomania can be difficult but not impossible. You can seek professional help to manage trichotillomania. Besides working with a physician to manage hair pulling condition, joining support groups made up of other people facing similar issues can also help to deal with this order.