Expert: Dr. Kristina Conner - 3/29/2007

Question
I am actually crying right now after reading about this disorder.  I have been suffering from this since I was 14yrs old and I am 28yrs old now.  I thought I was the only one.  I even made myself believe that my hair was just falling out when its me pulling it out.  I can now admit and tell that I have a problem and I need help.  I'm so scared.  my hair at this time will grow back but then i pull it out again and its real bad. I am African American and I use to have long hair now I have to wear hair weaves and wigs to hide my bald spots.  Its so embarrassing. But I can relate to most of the stories I have read about.  The urges and the uncontrolled feeling!  I can't take it anymore.  I think my daughter is starting to do it as well she is 8yrs old..  I know my sister 21yrs old has this problem as well but we all deny that it is hair pulling.  I tell everyone its alopecia angora I think that is what its called and its not.  I need help!

Answer
Shawonna,
Thanks for your question.  
Recognition of this behavior on your part is a huge step.  It takes a lot of courage and I applaud you for that.  Now the challenge is for you to find some practitioners who may be able to help you and your family members. Since trichotillamania is considered a clinical mental disorder, a psychologist or psychatrist would be an excellent place to start.  There may be medications that can help relieve the compulsion.  After that, or along with that, there could be some natural remedies that are helpful.  This might include herbal medicines or constitutional homeopathy, which can be very effective for compulsive behaviors like this.  For natural options, find a naturopathic doctor in your area at www.naturopathic.org, or a homeopathic doctor at www.homeopathic.org.  Since both types of practitioners give very individualized care, you would need to see them in person.  The advantage is that natural treatments can help with other health concerns, since it's a whole person approach.  I think the combination of conventional and natural treatments would yield excellent results.  
Good luck in your search!  
In health,
Dr Conner