Habit Reversal Training and Relaxation Training for the Treatment of Adult-Onset Trichotillomania due to Premature Greying: Habit Reversal and Relaxation in Adult Trichotillomania

Sara Aleem Haqqi; Sheeba Farhan; Syed Zahid Ali Shah; Saba Kalhoro; Syed Kawish Ali; Neeta Maheshwary; Muhammad Iqbal Asif; Waseem Asif

doi:10.54393/pbmj.v8i6.1229

Authors

Sara Aleem Haqqi Muhammad Ali Jinnah University, Karachi, Pakistan
Sheeba Farhan Department of Psychology, Federal Urdu University of Arts Science, Karachi, Pakistan
Syed Zahid Ali Shah Department of Thoracic Surgery, Abbottabad, Pakistan
Saba Kalhoro Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Thatta, Pakistan
Syed Kawish Ali University of Health Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
Neeta Maheshwary Department of Medical Affairs, Helix Pharma, Karachi, Pakistan
Muhammad Iqbal Asif Karachi Medical and Dental College, Karachi, Pakistan
Waseem Asif Department of Medical Affairs, Helix Pharma, Karachi, Pakistan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54393/pbmj.v8i6.1229

Keywords:

Trichotillomania, Habit Reversal Training, Stress Management, Relaxation Training, Behavioral Intervention

Abstract

This case study demonstrates the use of Habit Reversal Training (HRT) combined with Relaxation Training (RT) in addressing trichotillomania. The subject, a 28-year-old woman, reported experiencing stress and frequent lateness to work. Her hair-pulling behavior, triggered by the early appearance of grey hair, led her to spend 30 to 60 minutes each morning pulling her hair, which contributed to her tardiness. Over the course of 14 weekly therapy sessions, interventions included self-monitoring, psychoeducation, identification and modification of visual triggers, stimulus-response strategies, and restructuring daily routines. The treatment resulted in reduced stress and effective control of hair-pulling behaviors. The case suggests that incorporating a hair care regimen into therapy may further enhance positive outcomes. It also highlights the importance of considering both psychological and societal influences in the development and treatment of trichotillomania.

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