Are there any ways of treating Trichotillomania?

Question

Hello doctor,

I wanted to know how to cure OCD specifically trichotillomania. Other than seeing a psychologist, is there any way of treatment?

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern about treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) without visiting a psychologist. First of all, I like to inform you that the treatment of OCD depends on the severity of OCD. If you have severe or very severe OCD, then the treatment lies with both the psychiatrist and psychologist. I mean to say that a psychiatrist will be required in most cases of OCD and a psychologist is not a requirement. In cases of moderate or less severe OCD, the medications are the mainstay of treatment and there is no need to see a psychologist. In the treatment process, the first and foremost thing is the SSRI group of medications (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), which includes Fluoxetine, Paroxetine, Fluvoxamine, and Sertraline. Generally, a higher side of the dose range is required for these medications. The medications take time such as 6 to 12 weeks to show the full response. Once the response is achieved they are continued for one to two years before attempting to decrease the dose of it. The other options include electroconvulsive therapy in treatment-resistant OCD and psychosurgery in the treatment of unresponsive OCD. The treatment approach is completely similar for OCD and trichotillomania although it needs more consistent effort in trichotillomania when compared to OCD.

Thank you.