I started by going to a therapist. She helped me figure out that stress was a definite factor in when/how much I pulled. She also helped me realize why I did it at certain times of the day, and in certain situations. Also, she gave me some helpful advice/tricks to help keep myself from pulling (one of them being a journal). Not all of them helped all the time. I kept on pulling after my therapy was over. It wasn't until recently, not long before I joined this site, that I started to focus all my energy into stopping. For me the most helpful thing has been pure willpower, along with the support of my boyfriend. I also just try to remember how great it feels NOT to pull, and how I'll love having my normal hair back!
But as for a starting place, going to a therapist is never a bad idea. Like I said, it may seem like there's no trigger or anything, but, at least in my experience, it was a good starting place. I learned some useful things.
Good luck!!! Just remember, you're not the only one going through this, and we all support you here. :)

Thanks a ton im trying really hard and ive been to several places but theres not much help for people with tric in W.I.... Im tryin tho!!! Thanks for the suport!!!
-Ashley-

hey we have similar pics - cool. anyway the journal actually does help in the beginning. if you figure out what you're doing when you pull it helps you realize what you can do to stop (my triggers are boredom and stress - go figure). anyway becoming conscious of it is the first step. after that you can work on the issues behind it. good luck and keep in touch.

I also started by going to a therapist and I noticed you said you were from WI and than I seen you are from Oconomowoc. Believe it or not that's where my therapist is. Shes a trichotillomania specialist and she is sooooo helpful. Yes everyone says start a journal but there's so much more you can do. If you'd like to know her name and phone # email me and I'd be happy to give it to you. Do you see a therapist now? Not many who actually specialize in trich. the others don't understand or know how to help unless they've worked with 100's of others going thru the same thing...She really knows what works and what doesn't.
let me know paintmypasture@yahoo.com

I thought I pulled every minute too, until I kept a journal of pulling. It does sound dumb, but it really helped me realize my "danger zones." Reading the book, "The Hair Pulling Problem." Helped me have a more positive attitude about trying to stop pulling, because I had given up hope. It's a good book with some helpful tips and a review of various treatment options. After I've gone through a bad spell, I try to get back on track with little goals. Like, no pulling eyebrows for x number of days, and I'll reward myself with some little treat. During this time I can still allow myself to pull other places (eyelashes) and still feel like I'm working on a goal. Baby steps, ya know?

Loooooooong message coming your way... lol