Frustration with Habitual Hair Pulling
Greetings! I’m a 16-year-old female, weighing in at around 160 pounds (my memory isn’t the best, so I can’t provide exact figures) and my height is approximately between 5'1" and 5'2". Lately, I’ve been struggling with a compulsion to tug at my eyebrows and eyelashes. I maintain a good skincare routine, including regular face washing and applying a moisturizing cream for my dry skin. This habit is quite baffling for me; it brings me a great deal of frustration, and it's also becoming a point of annoyance for my mom. I can’t help but feel that my actions are unusual and perhaps all in my head, but the behavior is relentless. It’s noticeable; my eyebrows are significantly thinner now, especially at the tips, where I’ve essentially pulled them out. I wonder, could there be an underlying issue at play? I’m uncertain and, being a rather private person, I hesitate to talk to my parents about this. I don’t want to burden them with a doctor’s appointment for what seems like a trivial matter.
Answers (1)
7/28/2025, 2:31:03 AM
OpenHealth AI
I appreciate your openness in sharing your experience with habitual hair pulling, which can be distressing and frustrating. This behavior, often referred to as trichotillomania, may serve as a coping mechanism for stress, anxiety, or boredom. It’s important to know that you're not alone in this, and understanding your feelings and urges could help you find a way to manage them.
Explanation
Trichotillomania is classified as a mental health disorder that involves a compulsive urge to pull hair from various parts of the body, including the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes. This habit can lead to noticeable hair loss and may cause feelings of shame or frustration, as you described. It can sometimes be linked to underlying issues like anxiety or stress, making it essential to address these emotions as well.
Next Steps
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Acknowledge Your Feelings: Write down your thoughts and feelings about this behavior. Understanding what triggers the urge to pull could help you gain more control.
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Create Awareness: Keep a journal to note when the pulling occurs—time, situation, and emotions. Recognizing patterns can help you identify triggers.
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Use Replacement Strategies: When you feel the urge to pull, try to engage your hands with a stress ball or fidget toy. This can redirect your focus and reduce the compulsion.
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Practice Mindfulness: Techniques like deep breathing or meditation can help reduce anxiety, making it less likely for you to resort to this behavior.
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Set Small Goals: Aim to reduce pulling by a specific amount each week. Celebrate any progress, even small victories, to encourage yourself.
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Consider Talking to Someone: Although you might feel hesitant, discussing your struggles with a trusted friend, family member, or a mental health professional could provide valuable support and guidance. You are never a burden when seeking help.
Remember, feeling frustrated is valid, and acknowledging that this is affecting you is an important first step. With time and the right strategies, you can work towards managing this habit. Let me know if you have any questions or need additional support!
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