Exploring Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation as an Adjunctive Treatment for Trichotillomania

https://doi.org/10.65161/recAfUSMnUMijfYOi

Trichotillomania (TTM) is a disorder characterized by the irresistible urge to pull out one's hair, which can lead to significant mental and physical consequences. TTM is classified as a body-focused repetitive behavior and shares similarities with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), which can present challenges with implementing effective and long-lasting treatment. This paper aims to investigate transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), a non-invasive technique that stimulates certain parts of the brain. It is often used to treat individuals with trichotillomania to reduce hair-pulling behaviors. The paper will first provide an overview of trichotillomania and its association with OCD, followed by a review of TMS and its implementation as a treatment method for patients diagnosed with OCD and OCD-related behaviors such as TTM. The paper will then examine the efficacy of TMS in managing trichotillomania and conclude by analyzing the gaps in current research, putting forward potential directions for future studies. This essential investigation intends to highlight a possible treatment option for TTM, hoping to advance the scientific and clinical understanding of trichotillomania.