Connect with people who understand what you are going through, seek advice and surround yourself with support. We're free, anonymous, and professionally moderated 24/7.
Nat29Casual Contributor
Hi, I'm new here and a little scared. I'm embarrassed about my OCD that has consumed my life since a child. Yes I pull my hair out. I've never been in full control of it. But it does vary according to my anxiety.
I haven't spoken to anyone with my condition. OCD often refers to germs and cleaning. I do have some of those traits, but only with my hands.
I would appreciate hearing from other people who also suffer from this type of OCD.
Thank you
In response to: OCD - Trichotillomania
NatureLoverSenior Contributor
Just saw your second message, @Nat29 ... I am 50 and female, similar to you 🙂 I'm on antidepressants too, and they are supposed to help the OCD germophobia too, which they do I guess. I have only once tried to focus on the Exposure Response Prevention Therapy for the OCD, and it was a big failure as I felt the whole house was being contaminated. I chose to focus on my 5 other MIs (mental illnesses) plus my childhood trauma instead.
@Nat29 wrote:I've seen some pychologists who knew nothing about Trich. So weird. So that's embarrassing.
That must have been so hard for you 😞 And hard to trust someone who has never heard of it too 😞
What do you do, do you wear a scarf or hat? I am going to have to look at wigs if I pull any more of my hair out! I've already made note of a local wig shop, for when it gets to that point...
Tagging @AlSimon also, for the germophobia bits...
In response to: Re: OCD - Trichotillomania
EternalFlowerSenior Contributor
Hi @Nat29
Welcome and thank u for Ur post
I suffer from trich as well
I was shocked to see a new show life and beth, with a character who experiences experiences.
I haven't told my therapist, as for me I don't pick out my hairs from my head, but other areas. It is embarrassing.
Help us push aside the stigma and discrimination surrounding complex mental health and change the way people talk about, and care for, mental illness.
SANE acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
SANE values diversity. We are committed to providing a safe, culturally appropriate, and inclusive service for all people, regardless of their ethnicity, faith, disability, sexuality, or gender identity.
Help us push aside the stigma and discrimination surrounding complex mental health and change the way people talk about, and care for, mental illness.
SANE acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
SANE values diversity. We are committed to providing a safe, culturally appropriate, and inclusive service for all people, regardless of their ethnicity, faith, disability, sexuality, or gender identity.
You’ll soon be able to use one secure login to access all SANE services.
For added security, members are now required to log in with their email address and password - member names are no longer supported for logging in.
If you had a Forums account before 19 May 2026 and haven’t set up your new login yet, you'll be prompted to set up your new secure login when you sign-in.
Fields marked * are required
