Hair Pulling Disorder
Hair is often a source of vanity for many individuals, and sometimes, it can be a source of frustration. However, for some people, their hair is a way to relieve anxiety and tension. Individuals may obsessively pull out hair from the scalp, eyebrows or other areas of the body, in an effort to make themselves feel better. This disorder, clinically called trichotillomania, can cause bald spots and may lead to infection from the damage to the scalp or skin.
Symptoms of Hair Pulling Disorder
Individuals with this condition may exhibit a number of behaviors:
Pulling out hair from the scalp or other areas of the body, either individually or in clumps
Experiencing an increase of tension that leads up to the hair-pulling episode
A feeling of relief after the hair pulling
Certain rituals that accompany the hair pulling
Preference for certain types of hair pulling
Biting or chewing the pulled-out hair
Playing with the pulled-out hair or rubbing in on the face or lips
Resulting bald patches on the scalp, which the individual may try to cover with a variety of methods
Causes
Researchers believe that hair-pulling disorder is a result of genetic factors and environmental conditions. The individual may be predisposed to certain behaviors because of their genetic make-up. They may not produce a sufficient amount of serotonin or dopamine, important brain chemicals that are involved in mood regulation. This predisposition, combined with environmental tensions, can lead to the behavior. Both men and women can experience the disorder, but it is much more common in women.
Complications
Hair-pulling disorder can cause the individuals extreme embarrassment and distress. In some cases, the guilt and fear of discovery can cause the individual to avoid working or social activities. The bald patches can become permanent and can cause an unnatural appearance. Skin infections can occur from open wounds causing by pulling out clumps of hair.
Treatment for Hair Pulling Disorder
Treatment for this disorder may include cognitive behavioral therapy to help control pulling impulses, as well as anti-depressants to regulate mood. Hair replacement can help to restore the appearance to help the individual so that they can resume work activities and social engagement without embarrassment.
