Trichotillomania and Bipolar Disorder

Abstract

Comments on an article by Jon E. Grant & S. R. Chamberlain (see record [rid]2016-49351-006[/rid]). As the authors point out, psychiatric comorbidity is the rule rather than the exception in patients with trichotillomania. In one study, approximately 55% of patients with trichotillomania met DSM-III-R criteria for a lifetime diagnosis of a mood disorder, including bipolar disorder in a small number of patients. While major depressive disorder is the most common mood disorder, the relationship between trichotillomania and bipolar disorder remains unclear. As the authors point out, SSRIs are not generally effective in trichotillomania. Moreover, the use of these drugs inpatients with bipolar disorder may lead to further mood instability. Available literature, although limited to anecdotal reports, suggests that antidepressants should be avoided in favor of mood stabilizers for management of trichotillomania and bipolar disorder comorbidity. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved)