you are not your hair

Individuals with Trichotillomania experience intense urges to pull hair from various parts of their body, most commonly the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes. This act of pulling provides a temporary sense of gratification or relief but is followed by guilt, shame, or regret.  Some studies have indicated that people with Trichotillomania  may have imbalances in neurotransmitters, including glutamate. This imbalance can affect the functioning of brain circuits related to impulse control and repetitive behaviors. The urge to pull experienced by individuals suffering from Trichotillomania is a compelling and often overwhelming sensation.. This urge is not just a casual habit but a distressing and repetitive behavior deeply ingrained in the person's daily life.

People with Trichotillomania often describe the urge as a powerful itch, tension, or discomfort in the affected area. It's a feeling that builds up gradually and can be likened to a growing sense of unease, anxiety, or a physical itch that demands relief. The intensity and frequency of the urge can vary from person to person, and it may be triggered by various factors such as stress, boredom, or even while engaged in other activities. 

Oftentimes, people with Trichotillomania don't even realize that they're pulling their hair. This lack of awareness is a crucial aspect of the condition, often referred to as "automatic" hair pulling. During these moments, people pull their hair as an automatic or subconscious response, similar to a reflex, much like how you'd scratch an itch.