Obsessive Compulsive Disorders OCD Trichotillomania

Obsessive compulsive disorders, although it is termed as one are quite different. An obsession is felt, while a compulsion is acted out. In an obsession the fear is private and inward, in a compulsion the fear (or desire is taboo) is given a symbol that arouses the feeling of fear, in a compulsion the individual creates his / her own symbol.

The repetitive compulsion performs a particular act over and over again, must touch every lamp-post on his way home, count his money over and over again.

Both the obsessions and the compulsions are substitutes for something desired or imagined that does not harmonise with the personality ego.

Occasionally using analysis the originating causes to these problems are found and resolved. More important is utilizing cognitive behavioural therapy within hypnosis, which allows that person to think and feel differently. ERP exposure response prevention is used in conjunction with hypnosis and allows for superior outcomes. It is essential a plan of action is devised for that individual person suffering from OCD.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorders.

Trichotillomania TTM

Trichotillomania or the pulling out of hair mainly from the head, but can be from the eyelashes, eyebrows, arms, legs or pubis. This compulsion can begin at any age, more commonly between 9 - 15 years old. More females have this problem, or perhaps males can hide their baldness easier. Females will cover themselves up with hats, use false eyelashes and wigs, disguising themselves for fear of being discovered.

It can be caused by emotional or traumatic events during their childhood days. The condition which can be frantic at times is usually worse in the evenings or when bored, and during the menstrual cycle. This creates other problems, low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety due to their helplessness of not being in control.

They often experience tension prior to pulling out a hair, and then relief or pleasure afterwards. Often a particular hair is selected, coarser, thicker or wavy one, or a particular hair that does not feel ‘normal’ or is ‘alien’. Some will place the follicle of the hair in their mouth and bite on it experiencing a pleasurable feeling, others may brush the hair around the outside or inside their mouth.

Using psycho-analysis within hypnosis and finding the originating causes of the problem are imperative. Then utilising clinical hypnosis with cognitive behavioural therapy and interpersonal therapy, provides that person with better coping skills and coping mechanisms for the future. It is the combination of these two different therapies that work very well, producing a very positive outcome, and more importantly continues into the future.

The Courtyard 11a Canford Lane, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol BS9 3DE

Tel: 0117 968 6886, Mobile: 07811 37 37 03,

International 44117 968 6886

10 Harley Street, London W1G 9PF

Email david@hypnotherapy-clinic.co.uk