Stressed. Hopeless. Lonely. Helpless. Ashamed.
Those who struggle with trichotillomania feel all of these things. But they need to know that they are not alone! Between 2.5 and 3.5 million people experience this each year. Even many celebrities have shared their stories, such as Justin Timberlake, Katy Perry, Olivia Munn, and Megan Fox.
Trichotillomania is a disorder characterized by someone pulling out their hair.
According to Dr. Fred Penzel in his book The Hair-Pulling Problem: The Complete Guide to Trichotillomania, the hair-pulling episodes are sometimes done purposefully, and at other times the puller is unaware that they are doing it. Sometimes this disorder is coupled with obsessive-compulsive disorder, but not always. And the hair that one pulls out is not always on the head but could be anywhere on the body, including eyelashes or eyebrows.
But there is hope…
First of all, there are psychologists and support groups that can help people identify the cause of their hair-pulling episodes. Once the cause is determined, the behavior can be replaced with a different, harmless, stress-relieving behavior. But it may be tough for a person with trichotillomania to get out into a social situation to share their struggle because of incomplete hair loss.
Change is a lot of dedicated work for those struggling with this issue. Looking good on the outside can give strength and encouragement to regain control of their life. A wig can bolster the courage of a person with trichotillomania while they are waiting for their own hair to regrow.
Do you struggle with trichotillomania?
Call for a personalized, confidential consultation to see how Caryn at Wigful Thinking can help you stand strong and be confident, empowering you to overcome the challenge of trichotillomania. Soft and comfortable, our wigs are tailored for those with a sensitive scalp. There are even wigs available for eyebrows.