Hey everyone :)

I've struggled with trich since I was 10 years old and I'll be turning 33 this year. I'd say in the last year, I have become so much better about pulling my hair. For the first time since I've started pulling, I have full growth on my head! My hair is actually growing back, but I know it will take some time to be fully grown in. I know everyone is different, but here are some of the things I've done to help me to stop pulling: 

Being aware of where and when I pull. This was huge for me. I typically pull when I'm laying down in bed or on the couch. I'd find a pile of hair next to me after laying down for 1-2 hours. This would be so discouraging because I'd get out of my trich trance only to find I've pulled so much hair out. Unless I'm tired, I try not to let myself lay down if possible. I notice I rarely pull if I'm standing and moving around. 

What I've also tried to do is tell myself that "I am in control." Sometimes I realize my hand is going up to my head and I tell myself, "No, I am in control." I find that kind of self talk helpful. I sometimes feel so powerless when it comes to my hair pulling, but saying that to myself seems to help me a lot. 

Another thing I tried doing is washing my hair when I feel like I want to pull. This may not always work out if I need to go somewhere or do something, but if my plan for the day is just staying home and hanging out, if I feel the urge to pull I immediately wash my hair. I usually don't pull my hair when it's wet and in a towel. Also, if I have the time I like to do a hair mask. Doing this helps me feel like I'm doing something nice for my hair and also protecting it. I wear a plastic shower cap over it and leave it in for about half hour until I have to wash it out. I've noticed that I am more likely to pull my hair when it feels greasy than when it's clean. 

Ultimately, I find that my hair pulling stems from staying idle. I notice that when I'm not keeping busy, all my nervous, restless energy feeds my trich and causes me to pull.

I've spent so much money and energy trying to hide my bald spots. Hair toppers, colored hair spray, hats, different hair styles, I've tried everything. I'm so tired of hiding it. I think of all the time I've spent trying to hide what I've done. How many times I've shown up late, all the things I didn't do because I was afraid someone would notice my hair. I feel for everyone that struggles with this everyday. It's become part of my routine and I don't want it to be anymore. 

Are there tips and tricks that work for anyone else? Is there anything you try telling yourself that helps you gain control over pulling?