What are the symptoms of skin picking disorder?
People with skin picking disorder might experience:
- Repeatedly picking at their skin, often on the face, hands, or arms
- Feeling tension before picking or when trying to resist the urge
- Feeling relief or pleasure after picking
- Causing visible damage to the skin, such as sores or scars
- Feeling embarrassed or ashamed about the behaviour
What causes skin picking disorder?
The exact cause of skin picking disorder isn’t fully understood, but it can be linked to:
- Stress or anxiety
- Feeling bored or restless
- Other mental health conditions, like depression
- A habit formed over time
How common is skin picking disorder?
Skin picking disorder affects many people. It’s estimated that about 1 in 20 people may struggle with this disorder at some point in their lives.
Who is more likely to get a skin picking disorder?
Skin picking disorder can affect anyone, but it is more common in:
- Teenagers and young adults
- People with anxiety or depression
- Those with a family history of similar behaviour
How can I treat skin picking disorder?
Many people find help through:
- Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, which helps change behaviour and thoughts
- Support groups for people with similar experiences
- Mindfulness and relaxation techniques to reduce stress
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How to live with a skin picking disorder?
Living with skin picking disorder can be challenging, but there are ways to manage it:
- Keep your hands busy with fidget toys or other activities
- Use bandages or gloves to cover spots you tend to pick
- Practice stress-reduction techniques like deep breathing or meditation
- Talk to friends or family about your feelings and struggles
Final thoughts
Skin picking disorder is a serious condition that affects many people, but help is available. If you’re worried about your skin picking habits, it’s important to speak to your GP or healthcare provider.
