Trichotillomania

[TallulahBetty]

Just had a total meltdown and ripped out loads of eyelashes. Hardly have any left. I have a hen do on Saturday and a wedding in 6 weeks, both of which I'm having my makeup done. What the hell am I going to do 😢

I've posted in Style and Beauty for tips on covering it up. What can I do to stop doing it? It's been 20+ years and every time I think I've conquered it, i go again.

For background: already on citalopram for GAD and depression. Thanks

Flash lashes.

My friend had Trich when we are at uni. She had no eyebrows or lashes at all. Used to draw the eyebrows on (fashionable now) and wore flash lashes every day.

I only knew because I lived with her that was WHY she wore the flash ones. Others thought she just liked them.

That Sam Fairs woman from Towie pulls her eyelashes out and wears false eyelashes every day because of it ( if that helps) You could cancel make up and do your own or lie and say you had a terrible time with lash extension and the glue irritated your eyes and you picked at them. This happened to my sister.

I bet the make up artist has seen it before if that's what you're worried about - I assumed you meant sort of between then and now not so much for the wedding/ hen party make up - Sorry !

I've just posted about this.. I have the exact same problem except it's my hair. I have been doing it for about 12 years. I'm 27 now. I just don't know how to stop it?!? I've been hypnotised but that only seemed to work for a few months! X

I'm sure you've had it suggested to you before, but cognitive behaviour therapy might help? You could access a course of cbt via your GP. It's difficult with anxiety and depression so a course might feel daunting but it would give you some coping strategies.
Other methods of coping with stress are worth trying; mindfulness, exercise or yoga. I'm guessing the stress of your impending social events were a trigger for you.

Don't be hard on yourself, or embarrassed I hope you will still go and enjoy yourself.

Thank you all. I will have a look into CBT and also will have a quiet word with the makeup lady at the weekend if I can.

I know weeks have passed since you posted OP. I had Trich from age 13 til I was approx 33. I got myself CBT with a very helpful therapist. It cost me a fair bit of money but it was worth it. I had pulled out every single eye lash on many an occasion. I know the feeling of shame and regret. The feelings can be so strong. I actually had it severely. Whole head, Eyebrows, Eyelashes, pubic hair. It was sustained over such a long time.

Please consider CBT.

I would say I am 99% clear of Trich. I sometimes find I get that feeling again but i have the coping mechanisms now. It was about taking back the control. The therapist taught me to occupy my hands with something fiddly. Like a string of beads. I learned to take control. I did not have instant success but i now have a full-ish head of hair. I have hair cuts and also have colour put on my hair. My parents and family do not know. I confided in one friend and they were supportive and gave hugs and cups of tea at the times I most needed support.

Good wishes coming your way. It is a type of OCD. You need to feel in control.

My very best wishes to you. Bunch of flowers and bottle of wine to you.
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