“My Strange Addiction”’s Tajah, 35, Sucks Her Thumb for 9 Hours a Day: ‘There’s No Reason to Stop’ (Exclusive)

In a revealing episode of TLC’s “My Strange Addiction,” 35-year-old Tajah from Stratford, Connecticut, disclosed her unusual habit of thumb sucking, a practice she has maintained since childhood. Despite warnings from her dentist regarding potential health complications, she has no intention of giving up this lifelong habit, which she engages in for approximately nine hours a day.

Tajah shared her routine during a clip from the show’s season finale, highlighting how deeply ingrained this behaviour has become in her daily life. “I probably just wake up in my bed, turn over, lay down, scroll on my phone, just chilling, sucking my thumb,” she explained. Although childhood peers often teased her about the possibility of developing buck teeth, she remains unfazed, claiming that she has yet to experience any such mishap, which she cites as her reasoning for continuing the habit.

Health professionals generally advise that thumb sucking should cease by the age of four, as it can lead to various dental issues, including misaligned teeth, problems with the jaw, and even speech difficulties. Tajah acknowledges these risks, admitting that her gums have faced consequences due to her thumb sucking. “My gums have been affected because my thumb is pushed up against them, which has caused inflammation,” she remarked, describing mornings when her fingers are sore from biting them during the night.

The episode showcased glimpses of Tajah’s morning rituals, during which she frequently pauses to suck her thumb between tasks. Her dentist has voiced concerns about the likelihood of developing gum disease if the habit persists. Nevertheless, Tajah insists on taking measures to mitigate potential damage. She disclosed her dental regimen, which includes daily flossing and using mouthwash specifically designed to promote gum health. This, she believes, helps to counterbalance any harm caused by her longtime habit, leading her to argue, “So it balances itself out.”

In response to a producer’s suggestion that her logic might be “wishful thinking,” Tajah humorously disagreed, asserting her strategy as “preventative care.” Despite the health implications, her commitment to thumb sucking appears unwavering, and she finds comfort in her routine.

The story of Tajah stands as a stark reminder of how deeply entrenched habits from childhood can persist into adulthood, even in the face of potential health risks. Her determination to maintain control over the situation demonstrates the complexity of addiction, whether it involves substances or behaviours.

As the series comes to an end, many viewers may find themselves both fascinated and concerned about Tajah’s journey. “My Strange Addiction” continues to provide insights into the lives of individuals grappling with unconventional habits, often celebrating their uniqueness while also addressing the critical need for self-awareness and health consciousness.

The finale of “My Strange Addiction” is set to air on Wednesday, February 25, at 9 p.m. ET/PT, promising to offer further exploration of Tajah’s life and habits. As audiences tune in, they are likely to reflect on the nature of addiction and the importance of personal well-being, even in the face of longstanding behaviours.