There are three main messages we want to consistently convey during All Join Hands. Focusing on these three points will lead to a unified, accurate, and Informative nationwide event!

1. Trichotillomania is relatively common disorder affecting 2-4% of the population, including people from all backgrounds, which has both biological and behavioral aspects.
2. For many, the psychological impact of trich can be severe, including intense feelings of shame, isolation, and loss of control.
3. There is help available for sufferers and their families. Contact TLC at www.trich.org for Information , resources, and treatment referrals.

So, when being interviewed by the media:

• Know your three key messages. Always look for ways to “bridge” you key messages, avoiding a linear “Q & A” dynamic.
• Take the initiative. Ask if they are working on a specific story and what their deadline is. Understand the context before you start “getting quoted”.
• Deliver your key messages frequently by using every question as an opportunity to convey your message. Do not be afraid to broaden the question, if necessary, to include key messages.
• Talk in headlines rather than building to a conclusion. Answer a question with a direct and concise answer and then provide supporting statements.
• Be concise, otherwise the reporter will “translate” what you have said.  Remember that most reporters don’t have the time to understand and sort through complex issues, and even those who do understand the complexities need to simplify the story for their reader.
• Only promise what you can deliver.
• Be honest and remember that it is okay to say, “I do not know, but I will find out and get back to you.”  It is also okay to say, “I am not comfortable talking about that.”
• Do not talk with a reporter about sensitive Information “off the record.” Nothing is every really “off the record”.
• Avoid speculative “what-if” questions, and if this happens, re-direct your answer to what is.  It is misguided to speak about hypothetical situations with the media.
• Correct misstatements in a matter-of-fact way.
• Do not tell editors how you would write the story as this can motivate them to make sure the story is different from your suggested slant.
• Do not “critique” the media’s coverage. It is a no-win situation.
• Some reporters pride themselves on being “flip” and “deprecating,” but you do not want to imitate their style as you risk trivializing you messages.
• Stay cool, and remember that you are building what may become an ongoing relationship.
• As much as possible, stay focused on the immediate news and presentation. If the conversation begins to drift, refer the person back to the presentation.
• Be enthusiastic.
• Repeat each message at least three times. Tell them what you’re going to say. Say it. Then repeat what you told them.  Use various anecdotes and proof points to illustrate your key messages.
• Answer multiple-part questions one at a time.