I am a 22 year old female who has had trichotillomania (compulsive hair pulling) for about 14 years. I have had my ups and downs, but recently, I am having more trouble controlling myself.

I have previously used the SSRI-medicine approach and tried all of the appropriate medicines. I have had many problems with these prescription medicines and, in short, am no longer interested in drug-therapy.

I am interested, however, in non-drug approaches to controlling trichotillomania, such as counseling, therapy, and other techniques.

I would like to know if anyone has had any success with controlling (to some degree) their trichotillomania? As those of us with this condition know, it is doubtful that we will ever be able to totally overcome our urges, but having some control over the trichotillomania would be an important victory nonetheless!

Do you have any suggestions or tips that I could use? Did medicine work for you? If you're in therapy, what kind of therapy is it (biofeedback, behavioral, etc.)? Do you see a counselor, therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist? Have you read books or articles on this subject? Do you belong to a support group or frequently visit a trichotillomania website?

Any information would be MUCH appreciated!