A brief, residential peer‐support retreat for trichotillomania: A mixed methods evaluation

Abstract

Evidence‐based psychological treatments for trichotillomania (TTM) can be effective; however, relapse is common and consumers have indicated poor satisfaction with treatment outcomes. The aim of this study was to identify participants' perspectives of critical factors associated with short‐ and long‐term recovery following their brief, intensive peer‐support retreat for TTM. A mixed methods longitudinal design was used to evaluate a 3‐day residential peer‐support retreat attended by eight women who self‐referred into the retreat. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted at post‐retreat (n = 6) and 12‐month follow‐up (n = 5). Self‐report measures of symptom severity, mood and quality of life were completed at baseline (n = 7), post‐retreat (n = 6), 6‐month follow‐up (n = 5) and 12‐month follow‐up (n = 5). An inductive thematic analysis was performed to identify themes within the interview transcripts. Quantitative outcome data was used to confirm, challenge, provide context for, and link qualitative findings within the broader literature. Quantitative outcome data demonstrated reduced TTM severity from baseline to post‐retreat. By 6‐month follow‐up, symptoms had relapsed to baseline levels. Participants' perspectives of factors associated with recovery immediately after the retreat included group‐based processes (e.g., sharing, normalisation, safety, and enhanced motivation/accountability) and individual processes (e.g., readiness for change, self‐regulation skills). The qualitative and quantitative data conveyed similar outcomes at both post‐retreat and 12‐month follow‐up. Brief, immersive peer‐support retreats for TTM may facilitate equivalent symptom reductions as longer, therapist‐delivered cognitive behavioural treatments for some individuals.

Peer group support and motivational interviewing interventions impact parents’ behavior in preventing tuberculosis among children

“…Peer group support holds significant value as it fosters a sharing environment where relationships develop, and communal normalization occurs. This setting, characterized by a non-judgmental atmosphere established by both group members and facilitators, has been noted to be motivating and beneficial (Slikboer et al, 2020). Studies, such as the research conducted by Duvivier et al (2020) focusing on PNC, highlight that peer group support effectively enhances knowledge acquisition, facilitates behavioral changes, and strengthens group support dynamics by encouraging increased participation and the collective sharing of problems within the group.…”

A Review of Behavioral and Pharmacological Treatments for Adult Trichotillomania

“…Another study compared CBT to cognitive bias training plus CBT [36]. Lastly, one study analyzed six individuals who received an intensive, three-day CBT intervention in a group therapy setting [37]. Subjects in these two studies saw overall lower MGH-HPS scores in those who received CBT [36,37].…”

“…Lastly, one study analyzed six individuals who received an intensive, three-day CBT intervention in a group therapy setting [37]. Subjects in these two studies saw overall lower MGH-HPS scores in those who received CBT [36,37]. Three of the aforementioned studies also conducted follow-up assessments at various timepoints, from three months to two years after CBT intervention [35][36][37].…”

“…Three of the aforementioned studies also conducted follow-up assessments at various timepoints, from three months to two years after CBT intervention [35][36][37]. A common finding was that while CBT showed a significant reduction in hair-pulling immediately upon intervention completion, nearly all subjects' MGH-HPS scores worsened, some back to baseline, when re-assessed at the follow-up timepoints [35][36][37].…”

Social Media Peer Support Groups for Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders: Understanding the Predictors of Negative Experiences

“…This could indicate a gap in awareness or availability of mental healthcare services for individuals with OCD and depression specifically or of their preferences to seek out other forms of support. For people living with BFRBs, whose repetitive behaviours result in unwanted hair loss and/or skin lesions, the desire to self-manage the condition and seek support from those with similar lived experience is highly valued (e.g., Slikboer, Rehm, Lam, Maloney, & Nedeljkovic, 2020). In a study investigating the risks and benefits of participating in online mailing lists for trichotillomania (Bruwer & Stein, 2005), participants reported "feeling supported" and "obtaining information" were the greatest benefits offered by this type of online peer support.…”