Exposing Unhelpful Generalizations About Trichotillomania
Generalisations and misconceptions can contribute to the stigma surrounding hair-pulling and potentially hinder individuals from seeking help. Here are some unhelpful generalizations about trichotillomania that are commonly made:
It Only Affects Women: While trichotillomania has historically been more frequently diagnosed in women, men absolutely can and do also suffer from the condition.
You Must Have Experienced Childhood Trauma: While trauma can be a factor for some individuals, not everyone with trichotillomania has experienced childhood trauma. Assuming a direct correlation in every case can be misleading and actually hinder people from sharing their experience with Trich with their immediate family.
It’s Your Way of Self-Harming: Trichotillomania is in many ways distinct from other self-harm behaviours, it is crucial to not initially assume that someone with trichotillomania is trying to self-harm unless you have further reason to believe that this is the case.
You Must Lack Willpower to Stop: Believing that those with the disorder simply lack the willpower to stop perpetuates shame and misunderstanding. This seriously oversimplifies the complexity of the condition and dismisses the genuine struggles of those affected. Unfortunately there is no quick fix or treatment that is universally successful- we really hope one day there will be.
It’s Just Your Response to Dealing with Depression or Severe Anxiety: Many people will find their symptoms more severe during times of stress or periods of acute unhappiness, but the act of pulling does not always mean that you are experiencing severe anxiety, it could actually be a range of emotional catalysts: including boredom, concentration or even excitement.
It’s Only Pulling Hair From Your Head: While the scalp is a common area, many individuals pull hair from other parts of the body, including the eyebrows, eyelashes, moustaches, beards and body.
You Must have Visible Bald Spots If It’s Serious: The severity and visibility of the disorder can vary widely. Some might have very discreet areas affected or have found successful strategies to cover them up.
This list could be a lot longer (!) but in essence, generalisations can be unhelpful and often founded on very simplified or outdated understandings of the condition. When supporting someone with Trich, do commit to learning about what their individual version of the condition is like. It will really help them to get the best and most impactful support.
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