Trichotillomania Help in Boston

Before there was a diagnosis called Trichotillomania I had been working with clients that were chronic hair pullers. At the time, over 15 years ago, I was not sure what caused this behavior - I am not a doctor nor do I have all the answers, but I would like to share what my clients have expressed as to what helped them.

Trichotillomania a Body-Focused Pulling Repetitive Behavior

Trichotillomania is considered a BFRB Body-Focused Repetitive Disorder, which includes pulling out one's own hair, brows, and lashes, skin picking, and nail-biting. I have worked with over 1,000 clients in the New England area which shows how many people actually have this condition. Most explain that there is a sense of soothing and comfort while they pull out their hair, they are in a trance-like state and when they realize how much hair they have lost they tend to become depressed and exasperated. Some describe that there is an emotional charge while pulling out the hair follicle which gives them a sense of excitement. It appears that the health community is working towards treatment for Trich, but they still have a long way to go. I found that my clients with the best results, were those who stopped pulling, participated in therapy, some medications/supplements, and used hair pieces (scalp prosthesis) as a barrier or reminder to stop pulling. Some may wonder why not just use a wig. The answer is simple, most Trich sufferers have hair in other areas which makes it difficult to comfortably wear & fit a wig. Also, they do not look as natural and are easily removed which does not help with creating a barrier.

Trichotillomania Has No Age, Economic Factor, or Gender

Our clients are from all walks of life and ages, some are college students while others are physicians. Our approach is an aesthetic one - which raises self-esteem and awareness by giving back lost hair. We use hair pieces that are tied into the hair (no shaving or gluing) these hair pieces are customized to the individual hair needs. 

Trichotillomania does not discriminate based on age, economic status, or gender. It affects individuals from all walks of life, highlighting the importance of raising awareness and providing tailored solutions like customized hair pieces. By focusing on aesthetics and self-esteem, we can help individuals suffering from trichotillomania regain their lost hair and confidence. Therapy plays a crucial role in treating trichotillomania, with options ranging from commitment therapy to cognitive behavioral therapy aimed at addressing underlying emotional issues and stressors.

How to Cover Bald Patches

Part of the treatment of trichotillomania involves several steps, it is not just a mental health condition but a bad habit. Starting with commitment therapy for hair pulling is the first step, another types of therapy is for anxiety disorder such as cognitive behavioral therapy - CBT- with a focus on reducing stress levels, emotional issues, and controlling obsessions and negative effects of trik.

Exploring the TLC Foundation

The TLC Foundation is a great source to find both service and health care providers where you can seek medical advice. Organizations like the TLC Foundation serve as valuable resources for accessing professional help and support.

Family Support is Paramount with TTM

I can not tell you how elated the clients & families are when we service their hair and find an inch or so of new hair growth! Their hair concerns are immediately addressed. Amazingly this barrier works ~ so well that some clients have grown in their own hair and stopped the habit! As I previously stated, this is only 1 facet of helping, but one that changes the puller's overall outlook. If you are not in our area, I suggest you visit BFRB.org to find hair care providers, as well as lots of professionals with extensive experience with Trich. If you are in the Boston/New England area, we would love to help. You can just come in to talk at a private consultation. At our salon, you will find others with the same condition. It is so helpful to know you are not alone, our clients share stories, and tips and some become fast friends. This is such gratifying work! Below are some links to visit and products that have been successful for our clients during their journey toward healing and are part of your treatment plan.

Trichophagia is one of the Complications Risk of Trichotillomania

Trichophagia is one of the risks associated with trichotillomania, where individuals may also ingest the hair they pull out. This behavior can lead to serious health complications such as gastrointestinal issues, digestive tract problems, weight loss, or intestinal blockages. Seeking professional help and support is crucial in addressing trichophagia along with other aspects of trichotillomania. Therapy focusing on stress reduction, emotional management, and behavioral control can be effective in managing these harmful behaviors. Organizations like the TLC Foundation provide valuable resources for individuals seeking help and guidance in dealing with trichotillomania and its related challenges.

Trichotillomania Help in Boston

If you want the most comprehensive medical help, Dr. Nancy Keuthen is the foremost expert in Trich, skin picking and OCD and cognitive Behavioral Therapy. https://www.massgeneral.org/doctors/doctor.aspx?id=16797

 Habit Aware Bracelet which tracks/alerts your behavior & trains your brain to stop pulling through awareness.

 Facebook has many private support groups where you can share your personal story or find providers:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/trichotillomaniasolutions/

Check with your insurance provider to see if any part of a scalp prosthesis is covered. You will need to obtain a prescription from your physician, a paid receipt, and an invoice.

 Check out our website for a DIY hair mask that can help with hair growth.

I hope this information helps. You are not alone, we are not perfect beings, but realize there is help!