What Causes Trichotillomania?

Occurrence Of An Aggravating Trigger

The occurrence of an aggravating trigger can lead to trichotillomania. One aggravation isn't enough to develop the disorder, but continuing aggravation may lead to hair-pulling patterns. When episodes are related to aggravation, they often resemble obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms more than self-harm. The triggered brain begins engaging in obsessive thought spirals and compulsions. In the case of trichotillomania, the compulsions relate to hair pulling. Individuals may create elaborate rituals around their hair pulling or be selective about the kinds of hair they pull. Resisting these compulsions can be very difficult and cause increased distress even after the aggravating trigger has subsided. Aggravating triggers can be everything from sensory problems to irritation at others.

Learn about a related condition to trichotillomania now.