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Research and Reviews: A Journal of Health Professions Review Article

Understanding Trichotillomania: Exploring and Managing Hair-Pulling Disorder

  1. Deepa Narayan Naik Department of Mental Health Nursing, R. N. S. College of Nursing, Murdeshwar

Abstract

One form of traumatic alopecia is called trichotillomania, which is characterized by an overwhelming impulse to take out hair and a feeling of comfort once the hair has been removed. Alopecia in trichotillomania results from the patient’s deliberate act of pulling out their own hair, often triggered by feelings of stress, tension, or psychological distress. This condition, classified as a mental health disorder, leads to noticeable hair loss that can vary in severity depending on the individual. Trichotillomania may occur in episodes where the urge to pull hair comes and goes, or it can persist chronically, making treatment difficult. The chronic form poses a significant challenge as patients struggle with the compulsive behavior over time. Increasingly, research suggests that trichotillomania is more prevalent than initially recognized, affecting individuals of various ages and backgrounds, though it often emerges in adolescence. While behavioral therapy remains a primary treatment, medications and supportive care can also play important roles in managing the condition. This article aims to provide an in-depth examination of trichotillomania, shedding light on its complexities and exploring the range of treatment options available for those affected.

Keywords

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