I have very long red hair that I am proud of and feel like it defines me quite a bit; I am also a compulsive picker. I pick my lips, skin, and bite my cheeks. Several months ago I started picking at my scalp and it got worse. I have been to the dermatologist. I have been under massive stress since last year (divorce, death of mom, etc) and had no appetite so I ate very little after depression which also affected hair loss. I have added anxiety over losing my hair but I cannot stop picking and eating bits of my scalp. Specific solutions or personal experiences would be appreciated.

I have trichotillomania and there are tons of tips. -Get as many fidget toys as you can to keep on your desk, at home, near your bed anywhere where you can get bored. Use these when you have the urge to pick -they sell these finger covers on amazon they are called gel micro fingertip grips they prevent you from being able to grip your hair -keep a journal/paper and record when you have the urge to pull or pick this will help you notice triggers I might think of more so I’ll add it if I do

I have this too and it really sucks. But you’re not alone. How often do you shower? What do the wounds/scabs on your head look like?

It depends on if you get the colored finger covers or the more neutral ones, people might comment but people in my experience also comment when you are picking at your hair so it really depends on what you can handle comment wise.

I have looked into fidget toys (I've been recommended stim toys as I also have Aspergers which is often comorbid with OCD). Do people often comment on the finger covers? What is the best kind of fidget toy? I shower once every other day and have noticed I can see my scalp in places I was once unable. My dermatologist did not notice any patches and he suspects it has much more to do with my diet than the picking. Though sometimes I feel a bit sore in certain areas of my scalp. It is most likely multiple factors and I love my hair very much. I place emphasis on it and want to keep it healthy