🌱Growing into my 20’s🌿
GROWING = ACCEPTANCE
Since I was 12, I have had a nervous disorder called Trichotillomania.
This is a nervous disorder that affects the hair on and surrounding the face. When I am nervous or anxious, I pull out my eyelashes and eyebrows and sometimes when I don’t have any of those, my baby hairs.
As you may be able to imagine, this was not a fun disorder to grow up with. I was bullied for being “different” and when I started drawing in my eyebrows to “fit in” people didn’t like that either. I felt lost and alone and like…well a freak.
Even a while after high school I felt like this, like people were constantly judging me. I felt as if at any moment someone could bring up my disorder and I would break down into tears.
Doing research really helped me to grow in to the person I am today. Realizing that there ARE others out there like me and I need not feel so ashamed of who I was because other people have this disorder and can be themselves.
After a lot of reflection, I now go out all the time without eyebrows on. I am confident without having to do my makeup. I feel like I finally broke the cycle of hating myself for who I am. Full circle to acceptance. This is how I have grown, and I love myself so much.
If I were to do it all again, I would be kinder to myself. Have you ever had to grow out of something that was holding you back?
Trichotillomania, often abbreviated as TT, is a psychological disorder classified under obsessive-compulsive and related disorders. It involves the recurrent, irresistible urge to pull out one's hair, typically affecting eyelashes, eyebrows, and sometimes baby hairs. This behavior can lead to noticeable hair loss, resulting in emotional distress and social stigma. Understanding trichotillomania is essential for those coping with it or supporting loved ones. This condition often begins in childhood or adolescence, frequently coinciding with periods of heightened anxiety or nervousness. While the cause is not fully understood, genetic, neurological, and environmental factors are believed to contribute. Coping strategies and treatments have evolved to assist individuals in managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Behavioral therapies such as Habit Reversal Training (HRT) are commonly used to help patients recognize and replace hair-pulling behaviors. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) also addresses underlying anxiety and thought patterns. Support networks and online communities, including tags like #girlgrowth and #acceptance, play a vital role by providing a platform for sharing experiences and reducing isolation. Embracing one’s journey, as described in the personal story, highlights the importance of self-compassion and breaking societal stigma surrounding visible differences. Confidence without makeup and openly sharing one's story can empower others facing similar challenges to seek help and embrace themselves fully. Growing into your 20s, with acceptance of disorders like trichotillomania, marks a significant milestone in personal growth, resilience, and self-love.
you should be a model ♥