The Effectiveness of Behavioral Therapy Versus Medicines When Treating Trichotillomania

This review analyzed the effectiveness of pharmaceuticals versus behavioral therapies in treating trichotillomania (TTM), a disorder characterized by obsessive hair pulling and noticeable hair loss. It found that while both treatment methods reduced symptoms, behavioral therapies (such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Habit Reversal Training) were more effective than drugs. However, the review noted the need for more research to determine long-term effectiveness due to the common occurrence of relapse in TTM.