Trichotillomania is a lesser known and less common mental health condition that falls under the category of obsessive-compulsive and related disorders in the latest version of the DSM. It is "characterized by the persistent and excessive pulling of one’s own hair, resulting in noticeable hair loss" (Medscape). The scalp, eyebrows and eyelashes are the most commonly involved areas, but the hair-pulling can occur anywhere on the body where hair grows. Though it is thought to only affect 1-2% of the population (DSM-5), and females are affected more than males by a ratio of 10:1, it can be a particularly devastating disorder.
To get a better understanding of what it's like to have trichotillomania, check out the article "From Hair Puller to Hairdresser: Kelsie’s Life With Trichotillomania" by Kelsie Hanna, a truly powerful account of one person's experiences with this condition.
To read more personal stories of those with trichotillomania, see:
To get a better understanding of what it's like to have trichotillomania, check out the article "From Hair Puller to Hairdresser: Kelsie’s Life With Trichotillomania" by Kelsie Hanna, a truly powerful account of one person's experiences with this condition.
To read more personal stories of those with trichotillomania, see:
- "Woman hopes her experience with hair-pulling disorder will help others" (Global News)
- "Trichotillomania a True Medical Mystery" by Juju Chang (ABC News)
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