Comorbid Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Trichotillomania

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Mental Health
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Trichotillomania is a disorder characterized by recurrent, irresistible urges to pull out one's hair.
• Comorbidity between psychiatric disorders is common, potentially exacerbating symptoms and impacting functionality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of current posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in adults diagnosed with trichotillomania.
• To investigate the impact of co-occurring PTSD on symptom severity and functional impairment in individuals with trichotillomania.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was administered to 209 adults with trichotillomania between April 10 and May 11, 2023.
• Self-report measures assessed for current PTSD symptoms.
• Independent samples t-tests and Pearson chi-squared tests analyzed differences in symptom severity and comorbidities between participants with and without PTSD.

Main Results:

• 19.1% of participants with trichotillomania reported current PTSD symptoms.
• Individuals with PTSD were more likely to be male and have co-occurring alcohol use disorder and impulsive behaviors (gambling, sex, stealing, eating).
• No significant association was found between PTSD status and trichotillomania symptom severity.

Conclusions:

• Posttraumatic stress disorder is a frequent comorbidity in adults with trichotillomania.
• The co-occurrence of PTSD with trichotillomania is associated with an increased risk for various impulsive behaviors.
• Future research should explore trauma-focused interventions for individuals with trichotillomania and co-occurring PTSD to address associated conditions.