Trichotillomania (Hair Pulling) Support Group
Impulsive control disorder is the inability to resist an urge, temptation, or impulse, even when it may cause negative effects to the self or to others. If you or a loved one suffers from impulsive contorl disorder, join the community to find support and share your challenges with others who know what you're going through.
I was sexually abused by a family member when I was 8 years old and started pulling out my eyelashes shortly after. I've never thought to pull out any other hair other than my lashes which I thought was kinda weird. I'm 21 now and I have no lashes. Anything that grows back even the smallest hair I pull. It used to be associated with my anxiety and I would pull when I was overwhelmed but now its developed into a daily compulsion. I pull not only when I'm stressed (althought it does occur much more frequently when I'm having an anxiety attack) but also if I'm just sitting around at home watching TV or when I'm trying to fall asleep at night. I'm in desparate need of help. My anxiety has skyrocketed recently due to a car crash this past week where I overturned my car after hitting a telephone pole and I've been pulling so much my eyes are sore and puffy and I even made myself bleed the other day because there were no more lashes left and I was just pulling at my eyelids. I don't know what to do to help myself stop this compulsion. I've tried therapy and medications like Prozac and Zoloft but nothing works. If anyone has any medications or techniques that work for them I would love to hear them.
How have you been spending your time this week?
Right now you need to be gentle with yourself since you went through a triggering traumatic experience that re-ignited your previous trauma response. It is very important that you take the necessary steps to lessen your stress. Take up exercise, spend time outdoors, be around people who care for you. Abstain from coffee or any other stimulants such as energy drinks and soda. Caffeine excites the nervous system, which increases impulsive behaviors. Also make sure to get plenty of sleep to balance out the anxiety.
I can empathize with you about having a past which is full of trauma. Have you been diagnosed with CPTSD by any chance?
I remember my issues began in childhood when I witnessed my parents constantly arguing and threatening divorce. It all began with nail biting but the behavior morphed with age. Its some sort of learned coping behavior. I think for me it was all about the pain. The pain served as a distraction. I could focus on my hurting hands instead of anything else.
I also think that this is largely a subconscious problem. In order to get some sort of peace, its important to find closure from the past. I am in the process of healing from my trauma and its a long journey.
I also recommend that you get a fidget spinner. Another tactic is to pop bubble wrap. Engage your hands in doing other things instead of pulling.
I have fidget cubes, stress balls, and a Rubix cube that I play with. Sometimes I play around with hair elastics too.
I think once I get my whole car situation figured out I'll have a lot less anxiety.