Trichotillomania in Children

Trichotillomania refers to repetitive hair pulling that produces feelings of pleasure or relief in the moment, but feelings of distress and even shame later. Hair may be pulled from their scalp, eyelashes, eyebrows, or other parts of the body, often leading to noticeable bald patches. Although it is classified as an impulse-control disorder, it may resemble a habit, an addiction, tic disorder, or obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Roughly 1% of the general population suffers from trichotillomania. Over time, trichotillomania and the associated hair loss can significantly interfere with a person’s functioning and happiness.

If these symptoms seem relevant to you or your child, we can help. Feel free to contact us by calling our main desk at (212) 246-5740.

The Columbia University Clinic for Anxiety and Related Disorders (CUCARD) provides evidence-based treatments for all of the anxiety disorders that can afflict children, including:

• Separation Anxiety Disorder
• Social Anxiety Disorder      
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder      
• Specific Phobia      
• Panic Disorder with and without Agoraphobia      
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder      
• Posttraumatic Stress Disorder.
• Disruptive Behaviour Disorders.      
• We also specialize in the treatment of Selective Mutism, Trichotillomania and Mood Disorders.