Been diagnosed with trichotillomania

[Blueeyes91]

Since having my little one 8 months ago I've been diagnosed with trichotillomania. I didn't even realise I was pulling my hair out until I went to the doctor. I'm extremely embarrassed by this. I don't even know how to tell my partner.

I've never pulled my hair out before. This has only started in the past few months. Will I stop? Or is this a permenant thing?! What caused me to break like this? Because I do feel broken.

Anyone experienced this?

Hi Blueeyes, I'm sorry you're going through this. You have nothing to feel embarrassed about. Trichotillomania is a medical condition like any other and not something you've asked for or can help having.

I would get in touch with Trichotillomania Support for advice. It is possible to become pull-free and I'm 3 years pull-free myself :) .

I’ve had trich since secondary school. I’ve only ever pulled out my eyebrows. It’s a bit like biting your nails I suppose - you need to teach yourself not to and sometimes it’ll turn up all of a sudden. The trick is to figure out why and how you pull.

I know a lot of people don’t like talking about it but I told pretty much everyone that it’s a nervous tic and if I start pulling to let me know cause I got the stage I didn’t even notice I was doing it anymore - and I pulled out all my eyebrows so it was incredibly obvious.

I also have a habit of picking when I’m watching tv so ended up wearing gloves so I couldn’t pick. I also keep my nails really short so I can’t get a grip.

Ask if you have any questions though - my mum told me for years it was me being stupid and silly. When I was officially diagnosed at 27 it made everything seem clear so I am always happy to answer any questions.