There is no one recognized treatment for TTM that works for all sufferers. It is an indivdual thing and you may need to try different treatments to find the right one for you. It is often a combination of treatments that is most effective.

Treatments have not yet been scientificaly compared.  It is best to stick with treatments for which there is some scientific data.

The following pages list of the main treatments that are recommended by specialists:

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
    Habit Reversal Therapy
    Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
    Medication and Other Miscellaneous Treatments
    Self Help

Where do I go to seek help in the UK?

  • The first step is to go to your GP. 
  • Be prepared for them not to know about TTM! 
  • Its a good idea to take along some literature to show them. 
  • Ask to be referred to your local mental health team for an assessment. This is likely to with a psychiatrist or psychologist. 
  • Hopefully at this stage you can get a diagnosis of Trichotillomania. 
  • There are very few 'specialsits' in the UK so your best bet is to get referred for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).  Even if your therapist hasnt come across the disorder before in his/her patients he/she should be aware of its existence and be willing to work with you, learn alongside you.  If they feel out of their depth they may refer you to another member of their team.
  • CBT resources are limited and demand is high so there could be a long waiting list if you are seeking treatment on the NHS. 
  • If you are on a waiting list for CBT it is always worth while trying some self help techniques.  Medication may also be considered.
  • If you would like to find a private CBT therapist in your area a good national database of registered and qualified therapists can be found at http://www.babcp.com. 
  • BABCP stands for the British Association of Cognitive and Behavioural Pychotherapies.  You can specify what area of  competance you are loking for.  TTM is not listed but i suggest looking at therapists with experience of treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorders.

Is it realistic to expect my TTM to completely disappear once I've had treatment?
TTM is described as a chronic and sometimes serious problem.  There is no cure but there is recovery.  You will always walk around with a tendency within you toward the ilness, even when you are recovered.  Some people do experience remissions.  TTM is not likely to improve without treatment and treatment involved hard work and perseverance.