How to Stop Pulling Your Hair Out
With information, diligence, and determination, hair pulling is a habit that can be broken.
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You Will Need
- A journal
- Determination
- Ankle weights
- A mental health professional
- Internet access
- Vitamins (optional)
- Herbal supplements (optional)
- Optimism (optional)
Steps
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Step 1
Keep a journal
Write in your journal each time you pull your hair. Develop an awareness of when you pull, and why.
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Step 2
Keep your hands busy
Keep your hands busy – take up sewing, knitting, or drawing.
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Take vitamins and herbal supplements to help the re-growth process.
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Step 3
Discourage the hand that pulls
Wear ankle weights on the arm that pulls, or a rubber glove to discourage pulling.
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Step 4
Yell "STOP"
Yell "STOP" when you catch yourself pulling, and envision yourself with full, beautiful hair.
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Step 5
Look for triggers
Look for triggers that set off the pulling behavior.
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Step 6
Consult a mental health professional or join a support group
Consider visiting a licensed mental health professional if you can’t stop, or join a support group. Trichotillomania, the urge to pull out your hair, is a recognized psychological disorder.
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Approximately two percent of the population pulls out their own hair, often at a specific stage in their life.
