With recent television shows featuring hair pullers, Trichotillomania has become a popular topic among mental health experts. While many believe it is a habit-type of problem, others blame it on an obsessive-compulsive disorder. Regardless, this is definitely a serious issue that involves pull of one’s hair. This can lead to many serious issues including baldness. While the physical consequences of Trichotillomania are more noticeable, it is the mental side effects that are more dramatic. If you do not overcome your issue, you could likely develop depression and anti-social behavior, which is why many, who suffer from the disorder, become secretive and isolated.
Symptoms
Trichotillomania is a disorder that comes with a variety of different symptoms. You can find these in the list below.
- Bald spots
- Continuously pulling hair
- Urges to pull
- Satisfaction from pulling
As you can see, these symptoms can create some very long last effects that can make the patient appear awkward and stranger. This is why man of these individuals end up developing anti-social and secretive behaviors. While it can be difficult to come out of this secretive state, you must, if you ever want to overcome your problems.
Feeling Alone
When someone has a mental illness they feel like they are alone in the world, but that is not the case. Over forty-three thousand individuals have been medically diagnosed with anxiety disorders. Some will seek solitude in the confinements of their own home, while others struggle with the disorder and work a nine to five job, as if nothing is mentally wrong with them. The signs and symptoms of mental illness will only worsen over time if you do not get the proper treatment. Isolation is a common problem with mentally ill people because they are ashamed of their illness. They also know that there is stigmatism that has been placed on people with these diseases.
Self Help Groups
Communities have come together to form self-help groups that focus on specific disorders. This is a great opportunity for all individuals with mental disabilities to come together and meet others just like them. There you will be able to find other ways to treat your diagnosis.
Finding Help Online
Whether or not you know it, it is actually possible to find help for your Trichotillomania online. With the Internet, you will be able to maintain your anonymity, while asking your questions. Of course, you will also be able to join anonymous discussion groups. This will allow you to share your experiences with other, who are also suffering from the same disorder. This is definitely an effective way to remain secret, while still seeking out support for your hair pulling.
Overall
At the end of the day, Trichotillomania can be a life changing disorder. However, it is important to remember that you’re not alone. There is help out there, if you’re willing to look for it. Of course, you’re going to need to build up your confidence, in order to seek out the appropriate help. Start small, by posting online, and work your way to joining a support group, if you must.
Danny Greene is a blogger that discusses various mental and obsessive disorders. He writes helpful tips for seeking help and overcoming Trichotillomania.