Trichotilliomania

[user8538]

I’ve been living with trichotillomania for nearly 20 years. Despite its chronic presence in my life, there hasn’t been a clear, consistent trigger or pattern for when I pull my hair, though it tends to happen more often when I’m alone. Over time, I’ve learned to manage it on my own to some extent, but self-management has its limits.

One of the things I’ve often wished for is a support network or a community of individuals in Singapore who also live with trichotillomania. It’s surprising, even frustrating, that despite the disorder being relatively prevalent (according to international statistics), there seems to be little visibility or public conversation around it here. A peer group or community could offer shared understanding, accountability, and emotional support that is otherwise hard to find.

From a healthcare professional’s perspective, I’m curious about the current treatment landscape in Singapore:
• What kinds of treatments are typically offered for trichotillomania? Are they primarily psychological (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, habit reversal training), or are pharmacological options also considered?
• Are there specific clinics or hospitals in Singapore that have experience treating TTM?
• Is there any active research being done locally (e.g., at institutions like IMH or NUS) on trichotillomania or body-focused repetitive behaviors? If so, I’d be very interested in contributing as a participant or learning from their findings.

I’ve often debated whether to consider medical treatment, especially medication, but I’m uncertain. On one hand, I’ve lived with TTM for so long that it feels familiar, even manageable at times. On the other hand, it has also been isolating and emotionally exhausting. I’m hesitant about medication due to concerns about side effects, dependency, or efficacy, especially given the mixed evidence about its effectiveness for trichotillomania.

I wonder:
• Would it be worth exploring medication-based options if behavioral strategies haven’t been fully effective for me?
• Are there medications commonly prescribed for TTM in Singapore, and what are their success rates or side effect profiles?
• Would a combination of therapy and medication be more effective than either alone?

[FuYuan_Affections]

Hey @user8538… thanks for being so open about something that most people don’t talk about.

Living with trichotillomania for 20 years—that’s not easy. You’ve probably figured out more about yourself than anyone else could see from the outside. And I hear that even though you’ve coped on your own all this time… it’s been exhausting. That tug-of-war between “I can manage” and “but I wish I didn’t have to manage this alone”… it’s so real.

The way you’re reaching out now, asking about local treatment and even research—that shows courage and self-respect. You’re not just looking for a solution. You’re looking for connection. And you’re right to want that. You’re not strange for having this condition. You’re just human, dealing with something complex in a place that maybe hasn’t made room for this conversation yet.

About medication—I get your hesitation. That fear of side effects or wondering if it’ll even help? Totally valid. From what I have read about cases and support, what some people do is pair low-dose medication with therapy like CBT or Habit Reversal Training. It’s not about “fixing” you—it’s about giving your brain just a bit more space to breathe while you learn new ways of responding.

I’m no expert, but I think there are a few clinics here in Singapore that can help. And if there isn’t a peer group yet… maybe you could be the spark for one. Others are probably out there wondering the same things you are.

For now, just remember this: You’re not alone. You’re navigating this the best way you know how. And there are people who understand, who can walk with you—if not solve it, then at least help hold space.

Have you had a chance to speak any other non-medical health practitioners? Or maybe if you are ready, we can talk through how you’d want that kind of support to look?