trichotillomania - Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Message Board

grlintrupt · 07-26-2003, 02:12 AM

hi there, I am new and have a problem that I would like some help with. Ok since I was 12 years old I have pulled my hair out of my head, what started this I don't know. I kept doing this all through high school and etc. It never bothered me because I could never notice any bald spots or anything. But now within the past year I pull so much hair, that I can't wear my hair down anymore. I have to have it up or wear a bandana. This is very embarassing, and I know ppl. at work are probably wondering why my hair is always up. I just recently told my b/f that I do this, and he says he doesn't care, and that he's there for me. He is the only one I have ever told. I am even too afraid to tell my doctor. I also pick at my arms, and around my belly-button, I did bite my nails, but I have stopped doing that for a few months now. I have to always pick at my face to get rid of pimples and blackheads, and I will just sit somewhere for hours examining myself, just looking for flaws to pick at. I never knew what was wrong with me until I saw a show on tv about this woman wo had something called trichotillomania. I looked it up on the internet and I have all the symptoms. Sorry this is so long, but I would really like to have someone to help me with this, and give me some advice. Also, is this an obsessive compulsive disorder? By the way I am almost 21 years old now. Thanks to those of you who respond.

grlintrupt · 07-30-2003, 12:12 AM

Just wanted to thank you all so much for not even answering me at all!! I thought these were here so people could talk to each other and help each other out. What a mistake I made coming to this site!!

[This message has been edited by grlintrupt (edited 07-30-2003).]

eminemworshipper · 07-30-2003, 04:30 AM

Hey!
This is my first time on this board...so I thought I would drop in and reply to a few. Have u ever been to a doctor about this problem? I know everyone suggests this..but they really are the best at giving advice on things like this. Are these bald patches really noticable? U can actually have hair replaced at the hairdressers..so maybe that could be an option...u should speak to one about it. It could be a obsessive thing, but I am not quite sure. PLease let us know how u get on!!xx Good luck xx

Caroline

CapsFan · 08-01-2003, 01:36 PM

You need to talk to your doctor about this. Don't be afraid to ask for help, as it is a real disorder.

Trich is called an impulse disorder, but they're still debating if it's an OCD. Usually there's a "trigger" that makes you want to pull. There are forms of treatment, such as behavior therapy, meds, and support groups; however, not all of them work for everyone.

There are many support groups online if you want help figuring out how to approach your doctor. There are also several books available about trich.

hangtenvetter · 08-01-2003, 09:10 PM

Sorry that the responses came so late. Sometimes the participants don't make it on regular intervals. I have read a few posts here about scab picking and trich. I do hope you make it back here. There truly are people suffering from the same problem as you here on the boards. I know that they would be more than willing to hash things out with you and offer help.