Expert: Dr. Kristina Conner - 2/7/2007

Question
A friend pulls small sections of hair on her head until it makes a popping sound.  She learned about it from a girl who claimed it was a way to relieve stress.  She offered to try this on my head, but I am worried that it is dangerous.  What is she doing when she is pulling sections of hair on her head until it pops?  

Answer
Lola,
Thanks for your question.  
Compulsive hair pulling is called trichotillamania.  This considered a clinical mental disorder.  There may be medications that can help relieve the behavior.  I had a patient with this, and a large part of her treatment was homeopathy, which can be very effective for behaviors like this.  
It could be considered a form of stress relief, but if this behavior is compulsive, that's a problem because it often leads to even more anxiety.  I don't think it's the best way to relieve stress; for better options, I'd suggest exercise, meditation, hobbies, dancing, massage, laughing, talking with friends or family, journalling, etc.  The advantage of these methods is that they provide other positive benefits besides just stress relief.  Hair pulling by the root (which is the popping sound) doesn't offer any other benefits, and can lead to damage of the hair follicle if continued.  It can be disfiguring, adding to the person's stress level by worrying about physical appearance, as well.
I hope that answers your question and gives you some ideas of ways you and your friend can relieve stress in other ways.   
In health,
Dr Conner