Trichotillomania (hair-pulling) is a condition that involves recurrent, irresistible urges to pull out one's own hair, resulting in noticeable hair loss. This disorder is classified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5-TR) under the category of Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders.

The DSM-5-TR criteria for Trichotillomania include:

1. Recurrent pulling out of one's own hair, resulting in hair loss.

2. Repeated attempts to decrease or stop hair pulling.

3. The hair pulling causes significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

4. The hair pulling is not due to a medical condition (such as a dermatological condition).

5. The hair pulling is not due to a substance (such as drugs or medication).

Trichotillomania is not just a "bad habit" or a conscious decision to pull out hair. Rather, it is a compulsive behavior that people feel they must do, despite their best efforts to stop. For example, a person with trichotillomania may feel an intense urge to pull out hair when they are stressed or anxious, or when they are bored. They may pull out hair from their scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or other areas of the body.

Compulsive behaviors like trichotillomania often provide temporary relief from negative emotions, but they can also lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and embarrassment. People with trichotillomania may try to hide their hair loss by wearing hats or wigs, avoiding social situations, or limiting their interactions with others.

Avoidance is also a common feature of trichotillomania. For example, a person with trichotillomania may avoid situations where their hair loss may be noticed, such as going to the hairdresser or swimming in public. Avoidance can provide temporary relief, but it can also reinforce the compulsive behavior and make it more difficult to overcome.

Overall, trichotillomania is a complex disorder that involves both compulsive behaviors and avoidance. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of trichotillomania, let’s Get Started with treatment at COAC.