Find support for a hair pulling disorder.
"Trich" or TTM, as the affliction is known, may affect up to 4 percent of the population, according to MedLine Plus, a service of the National Health Library and National Institutes of Health. Individuals with Trichotillomania can get help with this compulsion to pull out their own hair through medical attention, support groups and personal training. Resources are available nationwide through Internet access and face-to-face groups.
Instructions
1. Seek medical attention from a dermatologist to diagnose any underlying medical causes for hair pulling. Comply with the doctor's instructions thoroughly, including the application of topical treatments, taking prescriptions as directed and returning for follow-up appointments.
2. Participate in a support group with a specific focus on Trichotillomania. Local and regional groups may be located through the Trichotillomania Learning Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to improve the life of individuals with hair-pulling, skin-picking and similar disorders that focus on the body. Go online to trich.org.
3. Join Hair Pullers Anonymous, a nationwide group that follows the traditional 12-step program of recovery. Call in to the telephone meetings held twice weekly, using a telephone access number and code provided by the organization upon request. Information is available online at hpanonymous.org.
4. Become a member of the Trichotillomania Learning Center. Get active in volunteer work and stay updated on the research and educational material provided by the organization. Attend the National Conference or Annual Retreat to interact with professionals and peers dedicated to the treatment and support of those with hair pulling disorder.
5. Recruit trusted friends and family members to give support. Request specific things they can do that will be helpful (a regularly scheduled phone conversation or a ride to the doctor). Give them brochures about Trichotillomania so that they can understand the disorder and offer appropriate support.
Tags: hair pulling, hair pulling disorder, Learning Center, medical attention, provided organization, pulling disorder