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Causes of Trichotillomania

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What Causes Trichotillomania?

The pros aren't certain what causes trichotillomania, but there are two theories out there. The first is that trichotillomania may be the result of deficient levels of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin in the brain. This is why trichotillomaniacs are sometimes treated with antidepressant medications. Check out this page for an alternative to medications.

The second theory points to a possible genetic cause. According to new research, trichotillomania (and also Tourette's syndrome) may be linked to a mutation on the SLITRK1 gene.

ABC News Report

Briefly Covers Research on SLTRK1 gene

Reasons For Trichotillomania

Perhaps, instead of trying to pinpoint causes of trichotillomania, it's more productive to focus on the reasons for this compulsion. Trichotillomaniacs feel a sense of rising tension before pulling and then a feeling of relief or pleasure after the hair(s) is pulled. It's been described as being similar to scratching a nagging itch. I like to think of it as popping the bubbles in bubble wrap--It's so addictive, and you don't have to feel distressed to do it. After a few minutes, you're just mindlessly deflating the air bubbles without counting or even being aware of how many you've popped. In the same way, hair pulling can become a compulsive habit, but it can also help the puller to deal with anxiety, frustration, or other negative emotions.

The positive gratification one achieves after pulling may also be enough for someone to continue this habit. Some trichotillomaniacs like to rub or play with the pulled hair and others even like to eat the hair after it is pulled (trichophagia).

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