TrichStop Trichotillomania App

Trichotillomania, or Compulsive Hair Pulling Disorder, manifests itself in two types of pulling behavior: automatic and focused. Automatic pulling is such that occurs without the person being aware of the urge to pull prior to engaging in the behavior, and so pulling often occurs without awareness. Focused hair pulling on the other hand, is when there is a clear and distinct irresistible urge to pull, resulting in the person purposefully engaging in the behavior.

In both instances, in order to apply skills and strategies to tackle the behavior, it is important for the individual to be aware of when they tend to or are most at risk of pulling. Pulling usually follows a pattern, and by identifying this pattern one can anticipate when the urge is most likely to occur. One of the strategies used to gain awareness of the behavior is keeping a pulling log.

This app allows you to document your pulling urges and episodes. Each time you experience an urge to pull or have a pulling episode, you can add an entry to the journal. After a while of using the app, you will have gathered enough data to start seeing patterns in your behavior: whether you pull at specific times of day, due to certain circumstances, etc.

It can be very valuable as a stand-alone journaling tool, however you can expect best results when you use it as part of a therapeutic process with a therapist, preferably CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy).