🎚️ Meet Ruben Chorlton-Owen, a brave 24-year-old from North Wales who’s shedding light on a rare condition called trichotillomania, a compulsive hair-pulling disorder.
Ruben has battled this mental health condition since he was about 15, finding himself irresistibly pulling out his eyebrows and other facial hair, often without realising it until it’s too late. He shared, “When it’s at its worst, I’ve pulled out most of one eyebrow. It’s automatic; followed by relief and then guilt, creating a cycle that can last days.”
Trichotillomania is not well-known, affecting about 1% to 2% of people, but it can target any part of the body with hair. Though often a hidden struggle, Ruben is speaking out to raise awareness, hoping his story will resonate with others.
Initially, he kept his struggle a secret, fearing judgement, but is now using microblading to regain confidence. Ruben reflects, “I’ve received messages from people thanking me for speaking up. I’m sharing my journey now because I finally feel comfortable, and I wish someone had told me earlier that it’s more common than people think.”
Navigating social media’s pressure to appear perfect adds another layer of challenge. Yet, Ruben is determined to break the stigma, stating, “I think there’s still a misconception that it mainly affects women, but men struggle too.”
If you or someone you know is dealing with this condition, it’s crucial to seek support. Ruben’s message is clear: you are not alone, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. 💬
For anyone concerned about their health or hair-pulling habits, reaching out to a GP is a step towards the right support and guidance.
👍 Show your support for Ruben and others by sharing his story. Let’s start the conversation and spread awareness about trichotillomania. 💙