TRICHOTILLOMANIA (TTM)

Trichotillomania refers to hair loss from self-induced pulling of one’s hair. Approximately 3 % of the world has trichotillomania at some point in their lives. Trichotillomania can occur in children and adults. Underlying depression, anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorder is present in a proportion of patients. 

Treatment of trichotillomania centers around understanding the psychological issues that lead to the pulling. Cognitive behavioural therapy can be effective for many individuals with trichotillomania.