Hi everyone. Whenever I’m stressed or anxious I sit there and twist my hair and pull it out, i can’t seem to stop myself. It feels relieving to do but my hair is getting very thin and bould patches are starting to show and it looks terrible! Does anyone else do this? Anyone have any tips they could share? I would appreciate it. Ive had this habit for years and would really like to quit it! Thank you!
Can’t stop pulling out my hair
- Thread starter Chris
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Hal 9000
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I'm close with someone was scratches herself until she bleeds and sometimes will put a rubber band on her wrist just for the quick sharp sting when she snaps it. She says it feels good, similar to you describing it as relieving I suppose.
I don't pretend to understand it but is it pain distraction you're looking for?
Would substituting a less destructive mechanism for pain, like the rubber band, help?
I don't know, so before you consider this look into it.
I don't pretend to understand it but is it pain distraction you're looking for?
Would substituting a less destructive mechanism for pain, like the rubber band, help?
I don't know, so before you consider this look into it.
Kimberly Hunt
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My cousin does this when he is stressing. It is called Trichotillomania (may have gotten the spelling wrong). I believe it is part of the mental disorders because it can be treated with SSRIs and therapy. You may want to look in to it more. He was put on Prozac and he has stopped his hair pulling all together.
Hurt&Hopeful
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I'm sorry you're dealing with that - mist be very stressful. 
I haven't personally dealt with it, but I've known others who have. One trick is to carry something else to fidget with that gives you a similar 'release' - like the rubber band to pop, like someone else mentioned. Or even something soft and soothing you can stick in your pocket and feel when you're stressed - I knew someone that carried a little raccoon tail and twisted that fur instead. I hope you find some answers!
I haven't personally dealt with it, but I've known others who have. One trick is to carry something else to fidget with that gives you a similar 'release' - like the rubber band to pop, like someone else mentioned. Or even something soft and soothing you can stick in your pocket and feel when you're stressed - I knew someone that carried a little raccoon tail and twisted that fur instead. I hope you find some answers!Hurt&Hopeful
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Hey Chris - don't hate yourself.
It's not something you choose - you are so much more than this one part of yourself, even if you feel like it's taking over. Have you been able to see someone about medication? Lots of people struggle with this, and it can be treated! Hang in there!Thanks so muchHey Chris - don't hate yourself.
unfortunately getting to the doctor is a struggle at the moment.