What Causes Trichotillomania?

Imbalance In Brain Chemicals

There is some evidence trichotillomania may be caused, in part, by an imbalance in brain chemicals. Neurons interact with each other and other cells through the use of electrochemical signals, so an imbalance of the chemicals used to communicate can cause many problems. Some scientists theorize individuals with trichotillomania have too little serotonin, which is largely responsible for making have a pleasant feeling. This theory stems from the fact patients with trichotillomania tend to respond well to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, but when the use of the drug stops, the individual typically will have a strong relapse in symptoms. Hormonal imbalance may also influence this disorder because it commonly presents itself in times when hormone levels are changing.

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