Trichotillomania
Question:
Hi Anita, My 4.5 yr old son had Trichotillomania. He pulls out his eyebrows and eyelashes and has done this since age 2. He is also dx’d as OCD, Tourettes syndrome and ADHD. He also has much, much anxiety. From what i understand, Trich is considered a sub-type of OCD, and/or a comlpex tic of Tourette’s syndrome. I know with my son it has been hard to treat. The only meds that have worked for him are the neuroleptics such as Risperdal. Sometimes his OCD and Trich waxes and wanes, but it always comes back. I have read that it usually affects women but i dont know if that is true or not. There is a discussion group for people with Trich among other things at Massachusettes General Hospital neurology web forum. I hope this helps. Best wishes, Jenny
Response:
I just found out that I there is actually a name for what I thought was just a very bad habit. For those that don’t know what Trich is, it’s pullling out your own hair. I’ve been doing it for years and can’t stop though I want to and try to catch myself doing it. I sometimes try to find the right piece to pull out and then examine it. I don’t know why I do this. I wish I could stop. It’s terrible trying to resist doing it. I also have anxiety attacks and take medication for it at night. I guess Trich and anxiety are connected. Any one else do this or know someone who does? Any info to help will be appreciated. Thanks, Anita
Sometimes we let affection,go unspoken,Sometimes we let our lovego unexpressed,Sometimes we can’t find words to tellour feelings,Especially towards thosewe love the best.
