We are a grassroots self-help network whose purpose is to provide peer support for adults in the Greater Vancouver area suffering from trichotillomania (TTM), also known as compulsive hair-pulling.

Our members include people with diverse backgrounds, ages, education, and interests.

Trichotillomania is the compulsion to pull out one's hair resulting in noticeable hair loss. Those with TTM may pull from the scalp, eyelashes, eyebrows, beard, pubic area, or other areas of the body.

Tension is often experienced just before pulling or when attempts are made to resist pulling. A sense of pleasure, gratification, or relief occurs when pulling out the hair.

It is not uncommon to examine and play with the root of the pulled hair. Other rituals may include biting the roots or even eating the hair (trichophagy).

In individuals with TTM, the disorder interferes with many areas of their lives such as their work or relationships.

Many people who compulsively pull out their own hair go to great lengths to hide the resulting bald spots, sometimes living in isolation due to the shame and embarrassment that they feel.

Behavioural therapy and medications are the most common treatments for TTM. Individual therapy and group support can also aid in overcoming this disorder.