Which advice would you give to someone who has just been diagnosed with Trichotillomania?

See some advice from people with experience in Trichotillomania to people who have just been diagnosed with Trichotillomania

Posted Aug 10, 2017 by Katlyn 1400

Don't take it as it's not something that can't be beaten, anything's possible, you've just got to get past the urges! If they send you for cbt (cognitive behavioural therapy) take it there could be a under line reason for your pulling and you just don't realise.

Posted Aug 10, 2017 by Lucyeleanor2601 2620

You are not crazy. The fact that you pull does not mean that you do not have your s*** together. It may also not mean that you are dealing with deeper psychological issues or hiding from past trauma. It is an impulse control disorder, that's it. And there are ways to lessen its impact. Don't depend on what your doctor or health professional says - do your own research. They may not know the condition well themselves and could be giving you unhelpful advice. Find others affected and see what has worked for them.

Posted Aug 10, 2017 by Shirley 2150

Just remember, you are more than your hair. Quitting can be hard work, and if you break your pull-free streak, don't give up! It happens to all of us. Some go pull free for months, even years, before relapsing. Just brush yourself off and move on. You've got this.

Posted Aug 10, 2017 by Ellen 2161

Don't let it define you. You as a person haven't changed, and you are not just some "bald freak" as many people like to say. You are still you and there are a lot of us like you, so stay strong and speak to people who have dealt with it. It may help you stop making the mistakes people have made before and we may be able to reassure you life isn't as bad as you think it will be when you have trich.

Posted Aug 12, 2017 by Catswithtatts 1650

Get 2 journals. One for emotions. The other for patterns. List diet, exercise, emotions, etc. to see if pulling can be associated with something like milk, depression, or possible triggers. It is one way to stay "in charge" of something you cannot control. When they emotion journal is full, burn it, bury it, keep it, whatever will help you deal with it.

Posted Sep 10, 2017 by Cynthia 1502

be kind to yourself, be gentle and love yourself. Join help groups. Trichotillomania(TTM)Awareness and other Facebook groups were created to help encourage others suffering the same.

Posted Oct 19, 2017 by Felicia@Face2FaceSpa 2000

Find a good support system. There are facebook groups, national centers for body-focused repetitive behaviours that put on events, therapists, etc. Know and try to accept that this is not your fault, and work towards controlling it and minimizing the effects. You are no less attractive or lovable with your condition.

Posted Oct 20, 2017 by Sari 2050

it's not the end of the world. You can be normal, and productive and happy. You are not just your hair, you are so much more! Be patient and kind with yourself, pull-free life is not the end all, be all. You can be a puller and still be a healthy, well adjusted member of society. Don't listen to those who wish to push you down....and finally...find your community. We're out there, just look for your people. There is strength in numbers, and it is a healing experience.

Posted Oct 20, 2017 by bennersk 2190

Love and accept yourself ❤
You're not alone ❤
Seek help always ❤

Posted Jan 27, 2018 by Vee 2770

Loving and accepting yourself before all else.

Posted May 25, 2018 by natasha 400