Life puts stress on almost everyone. Days that include tension can be even more challenging for the estimated 1 out of 20 people who suffers from body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs). This cluster of intense, habitual actions involves biting, pulling, picking or scraping one’s own hair, skin, lips, cheeks or nails in a way that can lead to physical damage to the body.
The office of Mars & Venus Counseling Center has superior expertise in all aspects of mental health therapy. We understand the complexities of human emotions and how they can work together in a positive way to enable people to enjoy fulfilling lives. Let us help you help yourself.
There is somewhat of an overlap between BFRB and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). OCD is driven mainly by undesirable intrusive thoughts; the compulsions are an attempt to prevent bad things from happening. Meanwhile, most BFRBs are attempts to reduce tension/stress or they’re done out of habit.
Medical professionals have determined that this condition can be inherited. Other factors include childhood experiences, the intensity of stress, general personality and gender. Women are affected more than men.
People with BFRB have options in their efforts to not let their habit rule their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is very effective. It helps you stay mindful of your thoughts and feelings, which, in turn, lets you control them more. Prescription medications can also be useful. While you continue sessions with a therapist, she (or he) can refer you to a psychiatrist, who is an MD with the authority to prescribe the appropriate meds.
These are some common BFRBs.
Onychophagia: nail-biting. It can hurt your skin, nails and teeth, as well as cause an infection.
Morsicatio buccarum: the inability to not bite the inner cheeks of your mouth. It spurs sores and swelling.
Trichotillomania: pulling out hair on your head or face (scalp, eyelashes, eyebrows) or other body parts. Some sufferers don’t even realize they’re doing it.
Dermatophagia: You gnaw on your skin and then swallow it or the scabs. Worry and tension can set it off.
Life is too short to be distracted and burdened by emotional restraints. Mars & Venus Counseling Center is dedicated to providing the highest quality of skillful and considerate care. For more information, please don’t hesitate to call us today. We look forward to helping you.
