TRICHOTILLOMANIA HAIR LOSS

Understanding Trichotillomania and Hair Loss

Losing your hair can be distressing, and when the cause is a compulsive urge to pull it out, the emotional toll can be immense. This condition is called Trichotillomania (TTM), or hair-pulling disorder, and it’s a body-focused repetitive behaviour (BFRB) that affects a significant number of people.

If you or someone you know is struggling with TTM, it's essential to understand that it's not just a bad habit—it's a mental health condition that requires compassion and professional help. You are not alone.

Based on a prevalence rate often cited in research (approximately 1–3% of the population), it is estimated that between 230,000 and 690,000 Australians currently live with Trichotillomania.

This is likely an underestimation, as the shame and secrecy surrounding TTM mean it is often underreported. The condition typically begins in the early teens, affects both genders in childhood, but is more commonly seen in adult women.

The exact causes of Trichotillomania are not fully understood, but it is believed to be the result of a complex interaction of several factors:

Genetics: There may be a genetic component, as TTM and similar disorders (like Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder or OCD) can run in families.
Neurobiology: Experts suggest a link to chemical imbalances or differences in brain function, particularly concerning the brain's reward system. The act of pulling may provide a temporary sense of relief or reward (a burst of dopamine), which reinforces the habit.
Emotional & Environmental Triggers: Stress, anxiety, boredom, anger, or even a relaxed state (like reading or watching TV) can act as triggers. TTM is often a form of self-soothing or a way to cope with overwhelming emotions. It can also be associated with other mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.
Hormones: The onset often occurs around puberty, suggesting hormonal changes may play a role.

The hair-pulling can be either focused (done in response to specific emotional states) or automatic (done without conscious awareness, often while distracted).

The exact causes of Trichotillomania are not fully understood, but it is believed to be the result of a complex interaction of several factors:

Genetics: There may be a genetic component, as TTM and similar disorders (like Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder or OCD) can run in families.
Neurobiology: Experts suggest a link to chemical imbalances or differences in brain function, particularly concerning the brain's reward system. The act of pulling may provide a temporary sense of relief or reward (a burst of dopamine), which reinforces the habit.
Emotional & Environmental Triggers: Stress, anxiety, boredom, anger, or even a relaxed state (like reading or watching TV) can act as triggers. TTM is often a form of self-soothing or a way to cope with overwhelming emotions. It can also be associated with other mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.
Hormones: The onset often occurs around puberty, suggesting hormonal changes may play a role.

The hair-pulling can be either focused (done in response to specific emotional states) or automatic (done without conscious awareness, often while distracted).