Pacific Hair is an Honored Service Provider Member of The TLC Foundation.
Trichotillomania or “Trich” as it is commonly known, is an impulse control disorder characterized by the repeated urge to pull out scalp hair, eyelashes, facial hair, nose hair, eyebrows or other body hair, often resulting in noticeable bald patches. This also affects men, although to a lesser degree. Sufferers are often subject to questions such as "Why don't you stop pulling?" "Why would you do that to yourself?" "Why don't you get help?".
Unfortunately, whether it is intended or not, questions as such can come off as very insensitive. At this time, trichotillomania isn't very mainstream, so many people do not realize that it is categorized as an impulse control disorder and that the sufferer must battle every single day. Every person deals with stress in different ways, and unfortunately, with those who suffer from trich, it manifests in a way where they may pull in hair from their scalp, arms, beard (yes trich affects men too!), pubic and leg areas.
Treatment options:
There are a few types of treatment that are available - however, it's important to note that there isn't a one size fits all treatment for all sufferers. Whichever method, be sure to note that with dedication it is possible to beat trichotillomania and live a pull-free life!
This type of therapy is one that focuses on redirecting or stopping the behaviour and triggers that cause the sufferer to pull in the first place. This type of therapy can only be performed by a registered psychologist who has a speciality in this area. Within this therapy, the client might find techniques such as putting wraps/bandages on their fingers to prevent pulling further, changing environment cues that can trigger pulling and keeping records of pulling.
Group therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (GT & ACT)
Medications
At this time, there are no medications specially formulated for trichotillomania, however, specialists may opt to prescribe an anti-depressant such as clomipramine, which contains an amino acid that influences neurotransmitters related to mood.
What can Pacific Hair do for me?
Pacific Hair is able to create a custom lace closure piece, or wig sized to provide adequate coverage to the balding spot(s). These systems can be installed semi-permanently, which will allow the wearer to sleep, shower and perform high impact physical activities without worry that it will move or fall off. These pieces and wigs may help to alleviate the stress associated with dealing with trichotillomania and prevent the wearer from reaching underneath to pull. Within several months of wear, wearers could find their urges have significantly subsided.
Trichotillomania and body-focused repetitive behaviour resources:
Pacific Hair is an honoured service provider member of TLC!
