Trichotillomania is a medical condition that more than 200,000 people in the United States deal with every year. It is known as hair pulling due to a lack of impulse control. It is a BFRB (body-focused repetitive behavior). Other forms of BFRB including biting nails and skin picking.
If you are dealing with Trichotillomania, it's important to review some tips on how to stop pulling your hair out. It will make it easier for you to get everything under control while also helping you to get back on track in terms of looking your very best.
Join A Support Group
Knowing that you're not the only one out there pulling your hair out can be extremely comforting. You might not know why you're doing it or how to stop. By listening to others who have been going through the same thing, you can have a support system who will help you through the process.
Buy A Fidget Toy
Whether you get a fidget spinner, a Rubik's Cube, or something else, keep your hands busy when you're idle. Otherwise, you may reach for a strand of hair and then another and another. Often, pulling your hair out is done in times when you're bored. Focus on something else so you don't feel the temptation.
Reward Yourself
If you have gone several days without pulling any of your hair, reward yourself a bit. Buy yourself a cup of coffee or a new pair of shoes. Set up some rewards so that you know what you can look forward to after going a full week, a full month, and even a full year of not pulling any of your hair out.
Go To Bed With A Barrier
Many people who experience Trichotillomania will pull at their hair in the middle of the night or in the moments before falling asleep without even being conscious of doing it. Choose a barrier to wear before you go to bed, such as a knit cap, a bandana, or even a hoodie. When it's harder for you to get to your hair, you will be less inclined to try to pull it out.
Appreciate Your Hair
Look in the mirror to remind yourself of how nice your hair is. Pull out some old photos that reminded you of the best that your hair has ever looked. Instead of pulling on your hair, do what you can to take good care of it. This includes washing it and brushing it. Head to the hair stylist to find a new hair-do that you will love so that you are less likely to sabotage the new look with hair pulling.
Get Your Family & Friends Involved
If you experience Trichotillomania, you may have rendered yourself bald in some areas. It's likely that your friends and family have noticed, or at least seen you pulling at your hair. Explain to them that you need their help. If they see you pulling, tell them that they need to stop you. It might be embarrassing at first but it will help you in the long run.
Hair loss can be troubling, especially if it doesn't seem to be growing back as quickly as it should (or not at all). The good news is that hair loss doesn't have to be permanent. Once you get your Trichotillomania under control, there are solutions for you to explore.
Many effective solutions exist for hair loss for both men and women. Schedule a consultation with Hair Professionals to learn about some of the solutions that may exist for you in West Palm Beach, Florida and the surrounding areas.