Trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder)

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Coping and support

By Mayo Clinic staff

Many people with trichotillomania report feeling alone in their experience of hair pulling. It may help to join a support group for people with trichotillomania so that you can meet others with similar experiences and who can relate to your feelings. You might ask your doctor for a recommendation or visit the Trichotillomania Learning Center's website to find a support group.

Family and friends of people with trichotillomania also may benefit from group therapy.

Alternative medicine
References
  1. Duke DC, et al. Trichotillomania: A current review. Clinical Psychology Review. 2010;30:181.
  2. Trichotillomania. In: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders DSM-IV-TR. 4th ed. Arlington, Va.: American Psychiatric Association; 2000. http://www.psychiatryonline.com. Accessed Oct. 12, 2010.
  3. Stein DJ, et al. Trichotillomania (hair pulling disorder), skin picking disorder, and stereotypic movement disorder: Toward DSM-V. Depression and Anxiety. 2010;27:611.
  4. Chamberlain SR, et al. Trichotillomania: Neurobiology and treatment. Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews. 2009;33:831.
  5. Chamberlain SR, et al. Lifting the veil on trichotillomania. American Journal of Psychiatry. 2007;164:568.
  6. Tay YK, et al. Trichotillomania in childhood: Case series and review. Pediatrics. 2004;113:e494.
  7. Moritz S, et al. Movement decoupling: A self-help intervention for the treatment of trichotillomania. Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry. In press. Accessed Oct. 12, 2010.
  8. Shenefelt PD. Biofeedback, cognitive-behavioral methods, and hypnosis in dermatology: Is it all in your mind? Dermatologic Therapy. 2003;16:114.
DS00895 Jan. 19, 2011

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