Asking for help..?

Hello,

I came to find somewhere to ask about this and this forum is the first place I found so I hope this is the right place to post it. I’m not currently diagnosed with trichotillomania, however I’m aware of it due to the fact I knew someone years ago that had it.

Over the past 4 years I’ve struggled with pulling my hair. It seems to be both when I’m feeling anxious, but also sometimes I don’t even know I’m doing it. I see pictures from 4 years ago and my hair was so thick, long, and so pretty. But now, one entire half of my head is bald and whatever is left is just thin and broken.

Even though I’m aware of how much it’s damaging my self esteem.. I can’t stop doing it. It’s destroying me mentally and I really want to try and get help. My only thing is, how do I approach this subject with a doctor? I’m worried about seeming like I’m self diagnosing and demanding a diagnosis. Only because I feel my symptoms line up with trichotillomania, after researching and watching TED talks from people who struggled with it too. I’ve found comfort in at least knowing the way I feel and act may be for a reason and it has a name.

Does anyone have any advice on this?

Thank you so much.