I'm 46 now, and I can remember in second grade I had a lesion on my hand that I actually had until I was almost 18 years old, but I used to have to stay after school to complete my work because I was spending so much time picking my hand and not doing school work. When I lived in Michigan I remember asking my therapist, psychiatrist, and my doctor about it, and none of them had any clue. I'm so glad that there is now an online support, and more info and resources for people like us. It is so embarrassing, currently I have to cover my whole body because I have scabs everywhere. Makes me very sad😢.
Anybody in this comment thread have any success with any meds, specific therapies, tips, tricks, etc? For me personally: -Therapy with a Psych who specialized in BFRB's which included the more common types of therapy as well as habit reversal therapy, exposure therapy, ERP, mindfulness training, anxiety reducing techniques, etc. -Luvox (fluvoxamine) -Keeping nails short -Focusing on constant skincare instead of picking -Keeping a good distance when in front of a mirror -Fidget toys, different textured slimes, anything I can use to keep my hands busy -Grounding techniques -Seeing a dermatologist (yes I know it's NOT going to be easy. I was lucky to find one who knew a lot about it and made me comfortable. I recommend asking ahead of time if the derm you choose is good with it.) and dealing with any underlying skin issues like acne, whatever causes the things you pick at, etc
I sobbed so hard watching this because it's so hard. It's so painful. You feel constantly dirty or not clean enough and then you look and see what you did. And that just hurts so bad. People will yell at you to stop or try to stop you but they have no idea how hard it is. Especially when your mental health is already deteriorating
Kalel who is a youtuber with the same condition. Had success with an online self help program. Maybe that's something you could try. Just make sure to do your research abs only do anything that is backed to by science. Don't waste your money on internet gurus that don't know what they doing. Unfortunately kalel deleted the body where she talked about it,
Yes I had and have some similar issues like skin picking, Trichotillomania etc. and I seriously wonder if there's some kind of infection or toxicity as a root as well as possible anxiety or other personal issues. Doctors don't know or diagnosis everything or even correctly. Would some kind of detox help? Yes I also got beaten and shouted at as a child for constantly pulling out my eyelashes, making my eyelids swell and bleed as well as sometimes or alternatively skin picking if I couldn't or tried to stop my eyelashes. Adults who just insist you stop as of you have a choice or as if you're possessed by demons and they need casting out, which I'm sure also my parents did multiple times .....I think they were the demons actually, the stress aspect behind it all, but I also believe something like a virus or toxin creates the urge and the sensation that hairs or lesions etc. must be gouged out .
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I completely understand the shame that comes along with having this disorder, but telling some of my close friends about my dermatillomania actually took a huge load of shame and pressure off of me, which also resulted in feeling the need to pick way less. Now I feel free to talk about the good and bad days with people who care about me which makes it so much easier to deal with. Again, speaking from experience, I know it's not easy at all. But I'd still highly recommend talking about it and hope that you'll also have an easier time dealing with the disorder. Much love!
I don't think people understand how DEBLILITATING this actually is for those of us who live with this condition. Knowing that others are not alone in their suffering is such a hugely important thing for a lot of people so thank you for sharing this story
Debilitating and isolating. I'm so glad they did this video. I've had it since childhood from trauma and anxiety mostly. Not feeling alone definitely helps. 💜
@jjswigger8591 - That is very good advice, my friend. I've suffered with this itching illness for 74 years, the whole time being mentally ill as well. One of the byproducts of my mental illness is an extreme case of OCD. I can make a BIG Deal out of the smallest thing and ram it down your throat as well. Your comment gave me an epiphany where I could see that my skin itching problem was just another symptom of my OCD. Perhaps if I can assume a more 'kick back' attitude about my life in general, the itching will dissipate on its own. God Bless You, brother, for your valuable advice. ❤
I avoided watching this because I pick my skin on a daily and felt ashamed of it... But I'm shocked at how extreme the complications are. It helps give me a wake-up call.
The shame only makes it worse. For me it really helped to talk about it to close friends, even though it wasn't easy. I hope you'll find your way with it too. Don't be too hard on yourself and remember to celebrate every small win as well. Much love!
Try NAC supplement My own family put me down for it... A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me! I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
her having the fidgets on her steering wheel is absolutely genius because i used to do it in my car after a very long stressful day. it’s also amazing to see so many people in the comments speak about their experiences - i wish the best for you all and myself ❤
I am in recovery after 5 years of chronic dermatillomania. For me, recovery comes with the occasional relapse, but I never expected healing to be linear. I’m grateful I didn’t give up.
Try NAC supplement My own family put me down for it... A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me! I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
I'm 50 years in. My scars are white circles. Apparently, we can dig deep enough to remove melanin. Anyone else? I've never actually met anyone that scars in the same way I do. I suffered trauma in childhood and I think the picking, like nail biting, was a kind of comfort. How unfair is that? I'm a skin picker who bites her nails! 😂 I've had to stay in hospital quite often. Usually, the drs ask, "What's the scarring from." Until relatively recently, there wasn't a name for it. The drs would usually class it as self-harm or ask what illegal drugs I was taking. I'm so grateful that people like this wonderful lady are getting the word out and helping to remove the stigma. Thank you! 🖤 🖤🖤 To all you dappled divas and dudes .... you're gorgeous, just the way you are! xxx
Yep-White scars all over my back and chest from picking at the acne there during my teens and even now later on in my 20s. Sending you love! It’s so hard.
I have white spots on my face from years of picking acne. I took Accutane 6 years ago and no longer deal with acne. Edit: I too was a nail biter for most of my life but I got adult braces in 2010 and I no longer incessantly bite my nails
I have white spots on my face too. Scars all over my face. My scalp has started breaking out so I've constantly got sores all in my hair. I hate it. 😢 I dont bite my nails but I pick and bite at the sides of my fingers. Sending love!❤
I have to see a dermatologist soon, for an unrelated issue. I'm hoping that I get to ask about my white scars. Find out if there's anything that can be done. I have wondered about tattoos. If I get any info, I'll post it here. Meanwhile ..... Dappled Divas Rock! \m/ 🖤🖤🖤
Try NAC supplement My own family put me down for it... A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me! I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
I am so relieved to know i am not alone. I pick at my scalp incessantly. I also suffer from trich. Which is a disorder in which i pull my hair out to get at the hair root. None of the treatments have ever worked for either of my disorders. I am very thankful for this upload and all the people commenting. I have thought i was the only one for years. The shame and isolation is absolute HELL.
@grace627 it is especially horrible in your teens and early 20s. I am 48 now and have been trying to cope for 35 years. It sounds weird but I didn't know there were things to manage this monster. I truly thought I was alone. Thank you for your strength in sharing with us.
Man give this girl props. She does not like a single thing try to get to her with her disability. She tries every little thing to try and help herself. All these little methods, toys. I hope she can find some form of good comfort!
That's really kind of you to say. Those of us that struggle with this have a desperation to stop like you wouldn't believe. Anything that potentially helps even a little is worth a try. I usually don't even think about how much work it is to overcome this because I've been doing it so long, but yeah it is a LOT of work both mentally and physically to improve the symptoms. Thanks for being a non-judgemental and supportive person 💜
I literally cried watching this video. I've suffered from this since I was a child, now a days it's more manageable, but knowing that there are more people who share the same thing and also help and support each other made me very emotional. Thank you so much for your work!
Try NAC supplement My own family put me down for it... A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me! I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
My daughter has skin picking when she was little. I got her to stop picking her skin and instead picking erasers and then when that became too hard on her fingers (we have a connective tissue disorder) I got her into picking styrofoam. She’s been doing so well with that.
Ask her doctor about NAC supplement My own family put me down for it... A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me! I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
If you read the comments…thank you for sharing your story. You have some great strategies for dealing with your disorder and a deep understanding of yourself…it’s really impressive. The work you’re doing with others is amazing, too, and I wish you the best of luck.
Try NAC supplement My own family put me down for it... A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me! I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
At first I judged, not understanding the possibility of such a disorder. I ended the video *incredibly* impressed with and proud of Lauren. The way she speaks and behaves, she is so intentional on how to better her life and those who are burdened by this condition. Thank you Lauren. Now I understand.
I wonder if I have a mild form of this. As a toddler I would pull out my hair and eat it so my dad shaved my head. It must have broken me of it because I never have done it since. However, when I did develop acne as a teenager I always was picking and squeezing zits. Now later in life, it's the chin hair that obsesses me. I'm always at them with tweezers and I don't really wear makeup except to cover any redness from tweezing and picking. I do my best to keep it minimal but my worst times are reading or watching videos . Then I do it unconsciously. The other part is my feet, I go barefoot a lot and develop callouses and they get dry and flaky and I can start picking at the skin again while reading or watching a movie. If my hands are busy, writing, typing, crocheting, mending, quilting, those are my best times. Should I see a doctor?
@@marsharansom3254id say from my personal experience, yes you probably should speak to somebody as that would classify as dermotillomania if you are unable to curb yourself of it, and especially if it is is impacting your social wellbeing.
Thank u for taking the time to watch this and understand us. I have found that I can draw really well and that is the best thing I have found that I get so hyper focused on like I do picking and it really helps me a lot. If I start picking I have to repeatedly have to tell myself to stop
I've been suffering with this condition for at least 20 years, and just recently I finally give a name to it thanks to person like you that talk about it on the internet. Thank you for your courage, guys that are reading this please remember that we're not alone fighting everyday with dermatillomania!
Try NAC supplement My own family put me down for it... A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me! I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
i feel and empathize with you so hard - i’m a survivor of childhood trauma and molestation from the hands of my father. my skin picking started manifesting in high school and got progressively worse around covid. my face and legs look exactly like yours. i dropped out in my third year of uni for music when my skin picking was at its worst. people thought i was doing opiates and i felt ashamed and couldn’t leave the house. i’m better now with it but haven’t been able to work since the skin picking became so debilitating, sacrificing my dream of becoming a musician. I’m on part time disability now and have no idea where my future is going. “relapse” is the hardest and makes it feel like all your progress is gone. 30 minutes in a mirror destroying 2 weeks of healing bringing me right back to ground 0 again. I try to not give any f’s and i hope videos like this raise awareness and will help with empathy for this disorder.
Same here. But u still can do things in life, like clothes can hide skin and u go to work normally, u can wear makeup. I did that and it is going ok. For my skin picking i want to see a therapist soon. I advise u to do so if you can too.
I went through a similar childhood trauma. I developed my disorders about 12 yrs old. It is such a relief knowing that I am not alone dealing with the pulling and picking. God bless the wounded children both young and old.
Try NAC supplement My own family put me down for it... A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me! I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
Wow…. I’m 55 and I have been suffering from this for. 50+ years!! Further more I have passed it onto my daughter to who suffers the same way, my arms and legs are like mottled with scars of all different shapes and sizes. I have never been to the drs with this, and execema hasn’t helped either. I will contact this group for tips about coping and diverting the mind away from the Feel of that “pop” below ur fingers, there is nothing that feels as good as that! Thank u for this!!❤
I have this as well and recently learned that there is a dissociative quality to it for me, I pick more when I'm dissociating. in therapy for years my therapists would poke at my picking being anxiety / stress related and it never quite aligned completely. addressing the dissociative tendencies has helped me manage my picking a lot more than focusing on the picking directly ever has. I still scratch / pick but I've definitely done it less- when I have it's not as severe, and I'm no longer guilting myself about it. ironically not focusing on stopping has made me feel closer to stopping than I have in 15 years
i’m 20 got diagnosed last year. realizing that my “acne” is completely self-inflicted was a lot to process lol, but it makes a lot of sense now, and therapy has helped sooo much. i also struggle with body dysmorphia and ocd, which fuel my skin-picking… sending lots of love to everyone in the comments
Try NAC supplement My own family put me down for it... A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me! I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
@@Chelzebelles I tried NAC and quit around day 50. I just didnt see any improvement. I'm struggling badly with it right now and im here to read the comments and see if there's another antidote. Thanks!
I have a much milder version of this and often it comes up in awkward areas. The bathroom is indeed a triggering area. It's made me feel unable to be sexual, I feel shame because of it even tho I have a loving partner. I honestly feel that it's a maladaptive way for me to feel in control or productive thing that is compulsive. Recovery drug addict - I had it before I used drugs it's just that void inside of me that makes me need to do ANYTHING ELSE but feel my feelings
You don't recognize it as a behavioral addiction at this point? Because people can be addicted to anything. What if you treat it like you have treated the drug addiction?
Try NAC supplement My own family put me down for it... A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me! I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
I have spent my whole life fighting skin picking disease. Got diagnosed with cptsd some years ago. Also suffered severe depression and mental disorder. Not until a friend recommended me to psilocybin mushrooms treatment. Psilocybin treatment saved my life honestly. 8 years totally clean. Much respect to mother nature the great magic shrooms.
YES very sure of Dr.benfungi. I have the same experience with anxiety, depression, PTSD and addiction and Mushrooms definitely made a huge huge difference to why am clean today.
Yes he's Dr.benfungi.Shrooms to me is a natrual healer. I know a guy who has used mushrooms in the same way and they have really helped him. mah dudes have safe trips all.
From my experience it really works excellently! It doesnt even need to be a full hit. With potent shrooms 2-3 small ones will still make a difference. It will be a few hour cosy rumbling arount in bed time, not being able to sleep with a brain in full gear and some color effects on the walls but afterwards its just calm and you feel amazing and gain your freedom. Psilocybin is different dudes, its the only "drug" I would recommend to someone who genuinely wants to get better. There is no addiction, withdrawal, or negative side effects. It's just pure healing., far more effective than any anti-depressant. You can thank me later
I struggle with this too, it's been a very hard journey. It started for me as an early teenager first getting acne as well as developing eczema, which caused me to scratch myself constantly. Over the years, it progressively got worse. By the time I was 16-17, I had sores and scabs all over my body, as well as scars from previous spots I had picked at relentlessly. I feel for the stuff she was talking about. I had to stop wearing white clothes for a while because they would get little blood stain dots on them from where I had picked. People would even think I was on drugs or something because of all the sores I had on my hands and arms. Other things like not wanting to go swimming (had scars on my chest from picking)... wearing hats and hoodies to make my face less visible, the list goes on and on. I'm finally starting to get better with it (now 22, turning 23 in a few weeks), mainly due to me working hard to make positive changes in my life. I found that I was the worst with picking when I was feeling overwhelmed and stressed, it was like an escape where all I needed to focus on was a tiny spot on my skin rather than the countless other things I needed to get done or was worried about at the time. I still do pick here and there, but it's far better than I was before. My scars are finally starting to fade away from when I was at my lowest points, and it gives me hope that one day I'll be done with picking once and for all. For all those who deal with the same condition, all I can say is don't give up. It's pretty normal to stop for a few days only to relapse and spend 4 hours tearing yourself apart, and when you do, it's a horrible, shameful feeling. You won't get better overnight, I'm still not fully better myself, but it is possible to improve. I find it way more effective to try to boost your self esteem and improve yourself (self care, hobbies, having fun) than it is to shame yourself away from doing it, because that shame will pull you right back into the same old cycle. I wish all of you luck! You aren't alone!
Omg, your comment about people thinking you do drugs because of the scars on your arms! The last time I went to donate blood, the nurse asked if I injected myself with anything, because of the spots where I had picked on the inside of my elbow (when I get sweaty in crevices like my elbow, i get little spots that I end up picking). I was so embarrassed. I lied and said it was just bad body acne. But I've never gone back to donate blood since.
Try NAC supplement My own family put me down for it... A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me! I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
im 17 and i have eczema and i think i developed dermatillomania aswell. i scratch my scabs off every day and its routine, i have blood spots over my clothes and ot just makes me upset
She is so beautiful, brave, and strong! I’m so glad she has used her experience to help others! If only I could properly describe how bad it hurts after a picking session. Especially after stopping for a few hours, and then forgetting how bad you picked, hopping in the shower, and putting the soap on your face, and shoulders! It burns so much. It went from only being my face, neck, and shoulders, to now, at 40 years old, I pick my arms and legs as well. So, even in the heat of a California summer, I have to wear long sleeves, and pants. 😢 thanks for talking about this, and vice for posting! It’s been about 23 years since I started this. 😢
Try NAC supplement My own family put me down for it... A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me! I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
I understand! This is the first time in probably 10 plus urs I’ve been comfortable wearing short sleeves and not wore long sleeves! It’s a terrible struggle daily but I am finding ways to help myself I still won’t wear shorts unless I wear tall socks which I wear silly socks and stuff and I started that at 13 when I started picking it’s now a part of my quirky personality. My scars on my legs r so bad and I have freckles on my arms so they help Hide them but I don’t have them on my legs.
I have a similar condition under the dermatillomania umbrella where I pick at the skin on my lips. I’m 21 and I’ve been doing it for 6 years. It got so bad that I started isolating myself from everyone and lost some of my best friends in the process who I miss everyday. I’ve been to doctors, therapists, tried out various lip balms and products but nothing has stuck. The absolute worse part is how alone and helpless I feel because of the lack of resources on this condition and not knowing what direction to take anymore. I never imagined that I would be in this position and I let my condition severely define my life in every sense. This video makes me feel less alone, so thank you for sharing a story like this
I had that as a kid. What I realised later was I was chronically dehydrated, and that combined with lack of access to lipbalm mean they were always cracked and rough and thick. I'm sure you've thought about all the treatments already but have you tried drinking dramatically more water for a while? Also low iron can influence this behaviour.
Try NAC supplement My own family put me down for it... A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me! I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
My picking was never as extreme as hers but I definitely feel her pain. Mine started as a way to stay awake in school bc I was struggling with undiagnosed narcolepsy d creating pain was the easiest way to stay awake in class. Then it just became habit...a very hard one to keep in check.
This made me cry. I've always felt so alone living with this disorder. Ive started to seek help, just waiting for things to work. You're an inspiration 💚
It's crazy to me that so many people in the comments have never heard of this when it's actually pretty common (different levels of severity depending on the person). Glad vice put something educational out. I've had this since childhood and the lack of awareness and judgement makes it so hard to live. So many more people out here struggle with this than anyone realizes. Chances are that you know a few. It's good to not feel alone. 💜
I'm 41 and have been living with skin picking since I was 5. The embarrassment is what stops me from confiding in people and those that know don't really understand that I'm not really in control of it and just can't stop. It is really hard living with this and I hope more people are aware of what skin picking disorder is and that we are not disgusting, but just really struggling mentally.
I take medication for diagnosed OCD and ive worked hard through therapies to learn not to engage in behaviors, to recognize what may set off a behavior and ask others to hold me accountable "I really want to wash my hands again, I know I already did, pls tell me not too" I also will avoid activities that might bring on a "feeling" of needing to engage in an ocd behavior. I'm really sorry your going through this, I can't help but think, a really good therapist and a diff medication geared more towards OCD could possibly help you manage and maintain a whole lot better. Keep moving forward and asking questions and looking for help. I think therapists who have alot of experience with OCD and possibly eating disorders - would be very very useful - I say eating disorders bc it's also has very repetitive behaviours in the way that it manifests and is maintained by folks.
Try NAC supplement My own family put me down for it... A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me! I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
Thank you for sharing your story. I developed both dermatillomania and trichotillomania (hair pulling) after a traumatic event when I was 21. Sometimes the effects of my BFRBs are even worse than the effects of my PTSD. BFRBs can be so isolating because people really do not understand it and you feel gross or ugly after you have an episode. I’ve been late to meetings and events because I was unable to stop picking or pulling in time to leave. I am glad to see a mainstream news source talk about this.
Hey I have dermatillomania and ptsd as well. Not sure which is more difficult to overcome. I've definitely been late because of it before too. So glad people are finally starting to talk about this so we feel less "weird"
I’ve suffered from this at a lower level. I feel my vanity saved me from picking so much. Watching these shows, I learn but it does trigger me as well! By the end of this video I noticed I was picking at my fingers!
I’ve picked scabs (which I know isn’t exactly skin picking) for well over 30 years now. I still do to this very day. I’m happy I have a supportive spouse that while he doesn’t understand completely, doesn’t belittle me for it like others in my past have. Tysm for sharing this story. It’s made me feel seen and been very informative.
Try NAC supplement My own family put me down for it... A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me! I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
One of my dearest friends suffers from this disorder. It's so hard for her, and for a long time I couldn't understand what the problem really was about, because she was so secretive about it and also she manages to conceal it in various ways. It's a serious issue for one's mental health and also for skin health. I have always listened to my friend, even when she refused to explain to me what the problem was, and I always tell her how much beautiful and kind and worthy of love she is. I mysel suffer from anxiety and OCD, so I know the struggle of mental illnesses. But excoriation disorder (or skin picking disorder, or dermatillomania) is less known, so it's easier to conceal it. I really hope neurosciences research will be able to find an effective treatment. Researches recently discovered links between OCD and ED.
Im so shocked to see so many people also suffer from this. Im reaching 40 yrs old to this day im still told im a picker . Ive always enjoyed popping spots and picking 5:18 but as ive got older its become an obsession and trying to explain the feeling of needing to do it is so hard to someone who doesnt understand. I have had a skin condition since the age of 12 and have always made it worse by picking and its left me feeling awful about myself, ive spent the last 10 years in my home and only leave my house every 2 wks to go shopping . I have been making small steps to start changing and gaining my life back and watching this is truely helpful and knowing so many others are going through something similar is inspiring and given me a new boost of confidence. Thank you ❤
Same. I’ve lived with Dermatillomania for this same amount of time as well. Mine will ebb and flow. It was very, very bad in high school and I would spend hours in the bathroom or my bedroom. I’ve tried three different anti-anxiety medications and two did nothing at all, and that I tried a couple years ago actually made it way worse so I stopped it after a month. Strangely enough, I also do a sport similar to what she did and I’ve experienced the same thing as she did with her tights. I’ve also had to get REALLY good at makeup especially on my arms and legs. It’s a never ending battle. The thing that has helped me the most was the most seemingly the most contradictory and that was just accepting it. I’m grateful mine never led to any severe infections or hospital stays. This lady is so incredibly courageous to bring this disorder to light.
I go through episodes of dermatillomania, and I’m currently battling a severe episode of Trichotillomania, another form of body-focused repetitive behavior. The hair pulling became so overwhelming that I finally had to shave my head last year. I pull every time it grows long enough to grab and still need to keep it shaved. I’m sick of wigs and I miss my real hair. Thank you for sharing your story, Lauren. I wish more people understood what it’s like to live with this condition.
I’ve been dealing with this since my father was in an accident in 2007. And trich. It started with trich and I would pick very specific hairs, my eyelashes: it had to be black at the root, wouldn’t stop until I got the one I was trying to get; my hair: had to be very curly or black at the root. The skin picking started after I had a calcium knot. It was at that point that I couldn’t help myself. I’m scarred all over at this point. I had to stop shaving my legs because I would pick hairs growing in and suddenly having big red spots that then became staph. I’ve never been naked in front of anyone, I don’t think I ever will be able to be and I know that no man will look at me and think I’m beautiful because I’m covered in scars. It was only until recently that I stopped to realize this is a form of self-harm, but I have not learned anything in the last 15 years in terms of coping. It’s not on a priority list for a lot of therapists. Especially since I haven’t done enough damage to end up in the hospital. Which also leads me to think that what I have done isn’t that damaging. But it’s the only thing that gets me through the day. I still have trich too, it’s just changed from needing black roots to needing gray hairs.
I’m so sorry for everything you’ve been through! Please 🙏 remember that you ARE beautiful! The outer appearance really doesn’t make someone beautiful, it’s the heart and soul!
Woah, I just left a comment saying I started doing something similar to this ever since my pregnancy last year and the events that transpired since, all of which have been extremely stressful and depressing and I wonder if I started as a defense mechanism to those stressful events. What I do is feel run my fingers down the length of my head hairs bc I like feeling the new texture. My pregnancy changed my hair and caused some to become wavy and crinkled feeling. These are the ones I like feeling. I don’t pick them out tho, but I wonder if I will progress as well.
@@stancexpunks it changes over time for me. I still pull lashes but no one near what I use to. I would have gaping spots and couldn’t hide it. Hair you can kinda move around to cover areas but can’t do that with lashes. Aside from trich, I am on a kick of picking my breasts and my face and dammit I get so in the zone of it then finally snap out of it and want to cry. I keep thinking about getting rid of my mirror, but that would only stop me from looking at my face. Just remember that this is fairly new, in terms of diagnosing, and hopefully we can find more help for it as time passes. You’re not alone
@@knockharder3554 I hope we can all find help ❤️ it’s not easy, a lot of people still don’t know much about these coping mechanisms and can’t understand it, but the more we put our stories out there, the more people see us and try to understand.
Hi Lauren! I almost passed over this video thinking it had nothing to do with my life, that is until I looked down for the billionth time to see tweezers pulling out my fingernails. Although it isn't quite the same, I have been using teeth and tools to pull out my finger and toe nails for 53 years. I understand the compulsion completely, knowing you can't stop (even though you want to), that in the moment the pain is a "good feeling" even though the hurting will be severe the next day, and that you are made fun of due to blood staining your skin. I am grateful that you shared your story and that you became a positive influence and help to others! God bless your healing!
I'm so glad you were able to find valid help for your disorder!! I've dealt with Trichotillomania for years!! Lash pulling was a big problem for me!! Anxiety plays a major role!! Everyday is a real challenge. I wish you much peace & strength on your journey!!❤
Thanks for giving this coverage. However, I don't skin pick, I hair pull. I get the tweezers out and pluck hairs all over for hours on end. I hope people with OCD can get to place in their lives where they can manage these compulsions. Fascinating how the mind. works.
One psychiatrist told me he believes 1/4 People have skin picking disorder. It's under reported. A nurse recently told me the same thing. I feel less alone. I've picked since I can remember. My mother picked. My son struggles not to pick. When i tell friends a good chunk admits they pick too. We are not alone.
Heck maybe even more than that. Everyone's just felt too ashamed and judged to talk about it. If you think about it, every single human being has picked their skin at some point in their life. Some people just have the compulsion that never ends. I have it too. Best thing ever was when I found a support group for it and realized I wasn't the only one. 😊
@@ItBeThatWaySometimes Think about how many people pop their pimples or pick scabs. Chances are, you've done it yourself. This disorder can be mild, moderate, severe, etc. Just like any other illness. The lady in the video has a more severe case. Chances are that you know quite a few people with the milder version.
@@ItBeThatWaySometimes I'm aware. But it's the same exact behavior. People usually dont talk about this or tell anyone if they're struggling due to the judgement and nasty comments they'll receive. Including healthcare providers. It is underdiagnosed which means it's incorrectly recorded in statistics. This disorder also exists on a spectrum. It's not like you do a checklist from the DSM-5 and if you get a certain score, you have it. That's not how diagnostics work in psychology. There are other factors to consider when making a diagnosis.
This video came in at the right time for me because I've been going through this since I was 15. I'm now with a psychiatrist and need to speak about it.
yes! speak out - release the secret. healing is possible! love ♥, strength 💪, & awareness 👀, Aneela (HabitAware cofounder in trichotillomania recovery)
Thank you for mentioning and talking about this kind of skin conditions. I’m living with a very annoying and painful condition called keratosis lichenoids chronica and have since birth, alongside with a very dry and thin skin texture. I’ve been taking isotrerinoin for 5 years now with some off periods between these years to keep it easier on my health. And yet there’s no cure or a specific treatment for my condition. Hope the best for anyone suffering with this type of diseases or anything else!
damn, omg I did this too it's mostly bumps on my skin, and scalp and it's been maybe like 12-15 ish years (because I'm trying to remember when it began) but it makes total sense I suffer from many different types of traumas, I have cptsd (from growing up with a narcissistic mother and only realizing it at 38 yrs old and being sexually abuse when I was a teen by my "father", being in and out of foster homes, shelters, ocd, anxiety, depression, I lock my wrists when I sleep and grind my teeth from the tension in my body, GERD, PCOS, IBS, and I'm on disability now because it's crippled me and my life. I'm finally getting professional help but it's going to be a long road I'm sure because it took a lifetime to have it happen to me I'm sure it takes a while for it to heal too. Thank you for sharing your story. You aren't alone
Girl I feel this. I'm sorry, and hope things get better for you. I've never been diagnosed but have had this for year on and off, sometimes are worse then others, stress. The worst part is once I start it have keep going as I just created an imperfection, it's a horrible cycle. Debilitating sometimes, some days I were so embarrassed so go out because I didn't want people to see my face or if going to the beach I feel shame about people seeing all the scars I have created on my own or open scabs/wounds. I have managed in different forms. Right now what is working for me is have long acrylic nails, and also tried gloves but that hasn't worked. But the 💅 I get them done and they are so long and dull it is so hard for me to get any bleeding/scratching done ✔️ 👍. Little costly but it works for me, hope this helps someone.
Thank you for making this video. I’ve been struggling with this my entire life. It’s been a battle but I feel like I’m finally getting control of it. Some days can be bad but I still work at it everyday. Glad there is people talking about it more ❤
Your hands are beautiful and unique, they have a purpose beyond self harm and daily bs, they are meant for legendary things, find what you love and dedicate your hands to it.
Me too! This sounds crazy but try getting a manicure with rhinestones (or adding them with polish at home). It’s the only thing that I’ve found that works when I’m stressed. I can push on the hard and get the same pain feedback or try to pick them off.
@@MeganVideoBlog I’ve tried everything. When I have a manicure my nails looks great, but the skin around my fingers still gets picked at and bleeds. I even have gloves I wear most of the time, but I can’t wear gloves 24/7, I’ve tried lol
I used to spend several hours in the mirror picking. I try to keep it under an hour. My main spots are my scalp, face, legs, and fingers. One time I picked at my nose and it got SUPERRR infected and tripled in size on one size. It was so painful. It takes weeks to months for any type of wound to heal. My cheek recently got really big and painful from picking. I’ve also pulled up nail beds. It’s exhausting, constantly searching for something to pick at.
Thank you endlessly for being so brave and sharing your story. I too have lived with this disorder since I can remember. I remember being 2 years old and having to take liquid antibiotics for all the infected sores all over my legs and arms. As an adult it deeply affected my marriage as well. During my divorce my ex told me that he lost attraction to me sexually because of my skin picking. Luckily being treated for severe anxiety with medication & therapy, along with yoga, meditation, exercise, and a healthy diet has fully ended my compulsive picking. Though, like you, I also have to be aware of triggers. And during times of high stress I have to consciously fight the urge to pick. I honestly never thought I’d talk about this. But you’ve given me the courage to do so by having spoken about it here. So, eternal thanks to you & Vice for giving a voice to those of who suffer with this disorder.
Im a master student right now. I did therapy for a client with this type of diagnosis. They also had tricolliomania. I enjoy helping others be more aware and overcoming these disorders. Thank you for sharing your story.
My sister has that, she pulls her eyebrows out. Even if people tell you are doing it, the compulsion is there and you just can't seem to stop. Her's is also predominantly anxiety-related.
I feel this so much, thank you for speaking out! The bathroom is also the worst place for me, when I pick I lose track of time and I don't even realize I'm doing it. When my acne and picking were really bad, I used to always take off my glasses to look at the bathroom mirror since I am near sighted and cannot see well without glasses
I don't have this to the extent of having a disorder, but I do struggle with skin-picking, and occasionally I have gotten infections. It's this crazy obsession (I do have a diagnosis of OCD) where I am obsessed with my fingers looking perfect, and I will pull all the cuticles off them to the point of pain and bleeding. It's a big enough pain for me, I can't imagine what people with the actual disorder go through.
I'm a nail picker too. I always have scabs/cuts/sores on at least half of my fingers. And it really sucks when it expands from your cuticles further up your finger. I've only just healed from a pick that ended up extending to the first finger joint. That was embarrassing to go to work with.....
Yep!! I pick constantly at my cuticles, occasionally with my bare hands but usually with an implement such as a safety pin or a staple. I also pick my scalp, face and arms. Diagnosed with OCD as well, also autism spectrum disorder and CPTSD. Been doing it for around 5 years, my cuticles noticeably begin earlier on my hands. I'm terrified that I'm going to push my cuticles back so far that they no longer anchor my fingernails and I'll lose one or more nails.
The medication she talked about made me unable to wake up from a nightmare I was having. I only took it one day and gave up. While I adore her for coming out with this, I recommend us learning from medical professionals rather than associating our own issues with hers because she is kind enough to share her story.
The hardest part for me is recognizing why I start picking in the first place. I know we are supposed to find our triggers but this is one thing I do without an obvious trigger. I have anxiety disorders and depression so I’m fairly good at pinpointing triggers for those disorders, but skin-picking is such an auto-pilot thing for me. I’m sure there ARE triggers but I just can’t figure out what is causing me to lose hours a day to this stuff. I’m glad she mentioned that trance-like state. It’s so frustrating to go on to the point of exhaustion sometimes. I’m typing this with a bandaid over my nose. I think I need to wear mittens too, lol.
I love the supportiveness of the comments… this is definitely a hidden disability and affects many of us so so deeply. It’s heartbreaking but knowing it’s not as uncommon is so comforting ❤️
thank you so much for having a platform for BFRB‘s - I also suffer from trichotillomania and dermatillomania, I am happy that people get more informed about these.
I've also suffered from this condition since 4:00 or 5 years old. My target areas are my legs and the skin around my fingernails. I just turned 40 in July and my index, thumb and middle finger on both hands have become misshapened from so many years of zoning out and chewing and picking the skin around those three fingers the most. So my fingers have grown I guess a little off-kilter because I have been doing it for so long. The only thing I can find that truly helps me not chew or pick the skin around my fingernails is getting my nails done. Honestly, it stops me completely and I wish insurance would cover having full sets of acrylic nails done for people who suffer with this condition. Because I have talked to other people who say that they have anxiety and they'll chew the crap out of their fingernails and the only thing that helps them is having their nails done with acrylic. Since it is finally diagnosable I feel like insurance should cover that. I think it would be amazing because it helps you when you are depressed or anxious feel good about yourself when you have your nails done. It also stops getting infections. Feeling insecure about myself because I have to wear Band-Aids on every single finger. That drives me insane by the way. I'm on anxiety medications and depression medications and it helps but it isn't a cure. I hate being on those meds. Just talking about it gives me anxiety. So I'm going to sign off and stop talking about this. But it's nice to know I'm not alone. Thank you for sharing your story. Also thank you everyone else in the comment section for sharing their stories as well. 🫶🏻
I've been there with the bandaids on each finger. The best ones are the waterproof tough strips. I've resolved to wear them until the problem is fixed but then I hate them at the same time, and don't want to keep buying bandaids. It's an outlet for my anxiety that mainly comes on at work and I really wish it could be channeled through deep breathing or something healthy like that!
I pick at my skin and hairline since I was a child and I’m 33 now. It’s definitely not as severe as hers but I could relate a little. I hope this video helps others.
I don’t know if I have quite this issue, but there are plenty of times I idly pick at like, ingrown hair scabs or whatever. I know it’ll heal if I don’t touch it, but it’s a hard obstruction on smooth skin, and “it needs to go.” And then that makes it worse. I think the only thing that has helped me to stop picking, stop biting my nails, stop neglecting self-care, has been to think of myself as “preserving my body for the woman I’ll transition to.” That’s not for everyone, but it has gotten me to reduce my urges.
This is the first video I’ve found where I don’t feel alone! Thank you so very much! I am a Christian and prayed for God to help me figure this out for soooo long! I can not even begin to tell you how grateful I am that he led you in my path🙏🥰 Your testimony is so important and inspiring to so many who suffer from this like myself! Again thank you for sharing
I remember when it all started. I was around 16 and I had no idea at the time what it was and most importantly that I was suffering from anxiety. Every time I heard about it, I wondered what anxiety felt like, not knowing I had it all along. It took 7 years to understand I had anxiety and I'm so grateful to have gotten a lot better. There were many nights spent picking at my skin, the blood no cause for concern as BFRB doesn't care, it wants what it has a problem with, gone. I have ridges on my nails from the trauma of picking, but my scars are few. I wish in school I had been taught about mental health and the importance of getting therapy. I wish for anyone struggling to be able to fight and live a great life! 💙
I also struggle from this and it's very validating to hear her talk. I also really admire all the way she's learned to cope with urges and channel them into not-so-destructive outlets
I have also lived with this my whole life thank u for sharing. No one ever understands and I’ve never been able to put it into words like some of y’all have. My daughter found this and sent it to me and was like wow mom I never realized how common and how hard it is for u! I cried so hard bc I Felt like I was listening and watching myself. I sent it to my mom and she was like oh wow it has a name!! She said she read the comments and it felt like she was talking to me! Now my family can understand it’s not just something I do bc I want to. It’s a real thing a real problem! When I say I can’t help it and they say I don’t know why! It makes me sad.
It's like a serious addiction. I used to do it for seven years. A vicious psychological cycle: feeling anxious/depressed -> picking skin to feel better -> seeing what you have done to your whole body and feeling even worse/ashamed and agoraphobic -> picking your skin to feel better. and all over again. I healed psychologically and now i only do it when i have panic attacks or disappointment feelings. I caught staphylococcus and other infections and none of it stopped me. Other people used to tell me like i looked like i was beaten up. I also developed a essential tremor in my hand at 20 which make things even more difficult, maybe my body send me signals to stop hurting it.
I relate to this 100%. Thank you for speaking up about this! Mine has gotten better now but I always avoid turning on the lights and looking at the mirror closely. ❤
Yes, I do have this, perhaps not on this level but I pick on my upper arms all the time, keep finding little bumps to burst, plus I pick on my lips, especially if stressed or tired. When I was a teen my forehead looked like a minefield because I couldn't stop picking on any pimple that would show. It's really debilitating especially stuff like lip picking as I don't realise until I've made myself bleed. Thank you for sharing your story and for all other folks with the same problem, you are not alone.
I have this, it's not as bad these days, started with my acne, i would pick it all and make it scar up, then the skin around my nails, i would pick and bite till it bleed and not notice, chunks of skin around my nails I would peel off, mostly anxiety induced from an abusive household/perfection and agoraphobia... Happy this is being talked about! 💗
That is so cool that she took her suffering and made it into something to not only help herself but others through this non profit organization - inspiring !!
I feel incredibly seen watching this. I have been struggling with dermatillomania for 10 years. Specifically, I pick the worst at my face and the heels of my feet. I managed to stop picking at the heels of my feet for a year or two but relapsed last year and have been picking my heels ever since. I’m so embarrassed and ashamed about it and up until recently I hadn’t told anyone I relapsed. I finally admitted that it’s getting worse and I need help to stop. I still have yet to stop picking at my face. I have made horrible, infected, bloody scabs on my face and sometimes it’s so bad I don’t want to show up to work from the shame I feel. I connected so much with her statement about trying to put makeup over a freshly picked scab and it not covering it. I’ve had that happen far too often. Doctors and dermatologists were always dismissive, never cementing the diagnosis but I just know. I know this is what I struggle with. To all of my fellow skin pickers, you are not alone. You are not disgusting or strange. It’s a process to quit, believe me when I say that, but you can do this!
there is a subreddit for support for this, people document their healing journey on it. i have had this for many years and was in a psychology class when i learned about it and basically checked every requirement for a diagnosis. it feels as if you're in a trance. i'm 25 now and it has gotten better, but it's still not completely away especially when i start breaking out or get stressed
thank you Lauren!!! proud to know you!!! & grateful for your bravery and vulnerability to raise awareness and support the BFRB community. You have shown how life threatening this condition is and how the community deserves to be taken seriously. Bless you. love ♥, strength 💪, & awareness 👀, Your friend in Advocacy + Awareness, Aneela (HabitAware cofounder in trichotillomania recovery)
it's so nice to see this talked about. i'm looking to get a diagnosis but i've been dealing with this for ages. i pick at my face when i can, my legs when i can, my shoulders, and my breasts, pretty much anywhere i can find somewhere to pick at, but mostly at my fingers, which is the biggest issue. my fingers are often in pain because of the raw skin and i have to cover up bleeding quite a lot. i do have a lot of anxiety but it's way deeper than that, spreading awarness about this is so important. i didn't realize it was a real problem for the longest time.
I'm also a skin picker (along with dermatophagia), but I'm doing better now and understand my triggers. Something that hurts the most hearing from other people is how "gross" they think it is, which is the last thing you need to hear. The whole reason I picked was as an attempt to reach perfection, so when someone reminds you of how disgusting you are, it just makes it worse. Extend a bit of compassion instead of stigmatizing compulsive behaviors. Thank you for speaking up and being an advocate for BFRB support and awareness!
I feel seen! I’m 49, and I’ve been doing this ever since I can remember, mainly focused on my fingers but also elsewhere if the “need” arises (scabs, etc). The skin around my fingernails is permanently discolored and pink, and I have scars on my legs especially.
I’ve been picking since I was 7, I remember my aunt telling me how ugly it looked asking why I did it and saying how ugly I was going to look in pictures. I WAS SEVEN. For me, getting tattoos has kind of helped. The healing phase is stressful but as soon as it’s over I don’t want to pick at and ruin the art. I had a birth defect, was also in an incubator for almost 2 months so we have that in common. Never thought about it.
I've had mild trich for years, mainly around my beard. I've been asked why I don't just shave the beard, but when I do I pick at my lips and it's much worse. It's never been severe, but I'm definitely self conscious about it. I've found some fidget rings have helped, or even putting band-aids on my finger tips to make gripping hairs impossible.
Thank you for sharing this. I have this and also compulsive plucking of hairs/ingrowns. I'm getting better, and learning how to deal with it. If you're reading this and feel alone and hopeless, know that you are neither and you are loved.
I’ve suffered from this my whole life. I’m so glad more people are talking about it now. I don’t feel so alone anymore.
me too. so glad people are finally talking about this because better treatments are needed
I'm so glad YT can make people feel not alone, even it's just between people who have to go to bed with mittens on for their own good.
I'm 46 now, and I can remember in second grade I had a lesion on my hand that I actually had until I was almost 18 years old, but I used to have to stay after school to complete my work because I was spending so much time picking my hand and not doing school work. When I lived in Michigan I remember asking my therapist, psychiatrist, and my doctor about it, and none of them had any clue. I'm so glad that there is now an online support, and more info and resources for people like us. It is so embarrassing, currently I have to cover my whole body because I have scabs everywhere. Makes me very sad😢.
Anybody in this comment thread have any success with any meds, specific therapies, tips, tricks, etc?
For me personally:
-Therapy with a Psych who specialized in BFRB's which included the more common types of therapy as well as habit reversal therapy, exposure therapy, ERP, mindfulness training, anxiety reducing techniques, etc.
-Luvox (fluvoxamine)
-Keeping nails short
-Focusing on constant skincare instead of picking
-Keeping a good distance when in front of a mirror
-Fidget toys, different textured slimes, anything I can use to keep my hands busy
-Grounding techniques
-Seeing a dermatologist (yes I know it's NOT going to be easy. I was lucky to find one who knew a lot about it and made me comfortable. I recommend asking ahead of time if the derm you choose is good with it.) and dealing with any underlying skin issues like acne, whatever causes the things you pick at, etc
@@zacharyconnors7945I truly feel your pain. I have really bad scabs on my legs :( it makes me feel so self conscious
I sobbed so hard watching this because it's so hard. It's so painful. You feel constantly dirty or not clean enough and then you look and see what you did. And that just hurts so bad. People will yell at you to stop or try to stop you but they have no idea how hard it is. Especially when your mental health is already deteriorating
Kalel who is a youtuber with the same condition. Had success with an online self help program. Maybe that's something you could try. Just make sure to do your research abs only do anything that is backed to by science. Don't waste your money on internet gurus that don't know what they doing. Unfortunately kalel deleted the body where she talked about it,
Yes I had and have some similar issues like skin picking, Trichotillomania etc. and I seriously wonder if there's some kind of infection or toxicity as a root as well as possible anxiety or other personal issues. Doctors don't know or diagnosis everything or even correctly. Would some kind of detox help? Yes I also got beaten and shouted at as a child for constantly pulling out my eyelashes, making my eyelids swell and bleed as well as sometimes or alternatively skin picking if I couldn't or tried to stop my eyelashes. Adults who just insist you stop as of you have a choice or as if you're possessed by demons and they need casting out, which I'm sure also my parents did multiple times .....I think they were the demons actually, the stress aspect behind it all, but I also believe something like a virus or toxin creates the urge and the sensation that hairs or lesions etc. must be gouged out .
I’m so sorry you are experiencing this. 😢
Try NAC supplement
My own family put me down for it...
A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC
I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me!
I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
Yes! I felt this. It’s the bumps and the change of texture. I’ve never been diagnosed, I’ve never told anybody. This is really a struggle.
I hope the diagnosis helps your road to recovery. I had full blown plague psoriasis so I know of skin conditions… proper meds cleared my skin ❤
Please talk to a doctor or another person. You don’t have to continue your struggle. Best wishes. ✌️
I completely understand the shame that comes along with having this disorder, but telling some of my close friends about my dermatillomania actually took a huge load of shame and pressure off of me, which also resulted in feeling the need to pick way less. Now I feel free to talk about the good and bad days with people who care about me which makes it so much easier to deal with. Again, speaking from experience, I know it's not easy at all. But I'd still highly recommend talking about it and hope that you'll also have an easier time dealing with the disorder. Much love!
What meds did you use ?@@CoolV3gan
I started learning about BFRB and trying to be mindful
I don't think people understand how DEBLILITATING this actually is for those of us who live with this condition. Knowing that others are not alone in their suffering is such a hugely important thing for a lot of people so thank you for sharing this story
Debilitating and isolating. I'm so glad they did this video. I've had it since childhood from trauma and anxiety mostly. Not feeling alone definitely helps. 💜
Oh man. I can 100% imagine. It’s something so so hard to control. I’m thinking it’s like anxiety - it’s always looming
It’s so painful. 😢
bro its on and off tho.. its about ur surroundings fiX URSELF not fixating on one small thing
@jjswigger8591 - That is very good advice, my friend. I've suffered with this itching illness for 74 years, the whole time being mentally ill as well. One of the byproducts of my mental illness is an extreme case of OCD. I can make a BIG Deal out of the smallest thing and ram it down your throat as well. Your comment gave me an epiphany where I could see that my skin itching problem was just another symptom of my OCD. Perhaps if I can assume a more 'kick back' attitude about my life in general, the itching will dissipate on its own.
God Bless You, brother, for your valuable advice. ❤
I avoided watching this because I pick my skin on a daily and felt ashamed of it... But I'm shocked at how extreme the complications are. It helps give me a wake-up call.
The shame only makes it worse. For me it really helped to talk about it to close friends, even though it wasn't easy. I hope you'll find your way with it too. Don't be too hard on yourself and remember to celebrate every small win as well. Much love!
I started to pick to once I saw the title. It's like I was reminded.
Try NAC supplement
My own family put me down for it...
A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC
I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me!
I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
her having the fidgets on her steering wheel is absolutely genius because i used to do it in my car after a very long stressful day. it’s also amazing to see so many people in the comments speak about their experiences - i wish the best for you all and myself ❤
You are helping SO many people. You should be so proud of yourself. To turn such a painful thing into helping others. I applaud you!
I am in recovery after 5 years of chronic dermatillomania. For me, recovery comes with the occasional relapse, but I never expected healing to be linear. I’m grateful I didn’t give up.
Try NAC supplement
My own family put me down for it...
A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC
I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me!
I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
I'm 50 years in.
My scars are white circles. Apparently, we can dig deep enough to remove melanin. Anyone else? I've never actually met anyone that scars in the same way I do.
I suffered trauma in childhood and I think the picking, like nail biting, was a kind of comfort.
How unfair is that? I'm a skin picker who bites her nails! 😂
I've had to stay in hospital quite often. Usually, the drs ask, "What's the scarring from." Until relatively recently, there wasn't a name for it. The drs would usually class it as self-harm or ask what illegal drugs I was taking.
I'm so grateful that people like this wonderful lady are getting the word out and helping to remove the stigma.
Thank you! 🖤 🖤🖤
To all you dappled divas and dudes .... you're gorgeous, just the way you are! xxx
My Dr asked me if I did meth 😢
Yep-White scars all over my back and chest from picking at the acne there during my teens and even now later on in my 20s. Sending you love! It’s so hard.
I have white spots on my face from years of picking acne. I took Accutane 6 years ago and no longer deal with acne.
Edit: I too was a nail biter for most of my life but I got adult braces in 2010 and I no longer incessantly bite my nails
I have white spots on my face too. Scars all over my face. My scalp has started breaking out so I've constantly got sores all in my hair. I hate it. 😢 I dont bite my nails but I pick and bite at the sides of my fingers. Sending love!❤
I have to see a dermatologist soon, for an unrelated issue. I'm hoping that I get to ask about my white scars. Find out if there's anything that can be done. I have wondered about tattoos.
If I get any info, I'll post it here.
Meanwhile ..... Dappled Divas Rock! \m/ 🖤🖤🖤
I have been suffering with this for over 20 years. I’m so glad someone has put something out there for people like us to get serious help.
Try NAC supplement
My own family put me down for it...
A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC
I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me!
I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
@@Chelzebelleswhat does that help with?
I am so relieved to know i am not alone. I pick at my scalp incessantly. I also suffer from trich. Which is a disorder in which i pull my hair out to get at the hair root. None of the treatments have ever worked for either of my disorders. I am very thankful for this upload and all the people commenting. I have thought i was the only one for years. The shame and isolation is absolute HELL.
Picking Me Foundation runs an online support call once a month, i can personally recommend ❤
@@mothball5425 thank you for responding and letting me know about some support. It's terrible thinking you are alone with no help
I too am a scalp picker badly...it sux....having flakes everywhere and my hair pulling to get the scabs it's gross
BFRBs are soooooo debilitating. Living with and managing trich for almost 10 years now. I’m 21
@grace627 it is especially horrible in your teens and early 20s. I am 48 now and have been trying to cope for 35 years. It sounds weird but I didn't know there were things to manage this monster. I truly thought I was alone. Thank you for your strength in sharing with us.
Man give this girl props. She does not like a single thing try to get to her with her disability. She tries every little thing to try and help herself. All these little methods, toys. I hope she can find some form of good comfort!
That's really kind of you to say. Those of us that struggle with this have a desperation to stop like you wouldn't believe. Anything that potentially helps even a little is worth a try. I usually don't even think about how much work it is to overcome this because I've been doing it so long, but yeah it is a LOT of work both mentally and physically to improve the symptoms. Thanks for being a non-judgemental and supportive person 💜
I literally cried watching this video. I've suffered from this since I was a child, now a days it's more manageable, but knowing that there are more people who share the same thing and also help and support each other made me very emotional. Thank you so much for your work!
Try NAC supplement
My own family put me down for it...
A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC
I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me!
I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
My daughter has skin picking when she was little. I got her to stop picking her skin and instead picking erasers and then when that became too hard on her fingers (we have a connective tissue disorder) I got her into picking styrofoam. She’s been doing so well with that.
That's absolutely beautiful!
Ask her doctor about NAC supplement
My own family put me down for it...
A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC
I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me!
I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
If you read the comments…thank you for sharing your story. You have some great strategies for dealing with your disorder and a deep understanding of yourself…it’s really impressive. The work you’re doing with others is amazing, too, and I wish you the best of luck.
It feels SO GOOD to watch this … you don’t even know how many times I said “yes!!!” During because I finally didn’t feel alone and felt understood
Try NAC supplement
My own family put me down for it...
A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC
I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me!
I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
At first I judged, not understanding the possibility of such a disorder. I ended the video *incredibly* impressed with and proud of Lauren. The way she speaks and behaves, she is so intentional on how to better her life and those who are burdened by this condition. Thank you Lauren. Now I understand.
thank you for being open to changing your mind! love ♥, strength 💪, & awareness 👀, Aneela (HabitAware cofounder in trichotillomania recovery)
I wonder if I have a mild form of this. As a toddler I would pull out my hair and eat it so my dad shaved my head. It must have broken me of it because I never have done it since. However, when I did develop acne as a teenager I always was picking and squeezing zits. Now later in life, it's the chin hair that obsesses me. I'm always at them with tweezers and I don't really wear makeup except to cover any redness from tweezing and picking. I do my best to keep it minimal but my worst times are reading or watching videos . Then I do it unconsciously. The other part is my feet, I go barefoot a lot and develop callouses and they get dry and flaky and I can start picking at the skin again while reading or watching a movie. If my hands are busy, writing, typing, crocheting, mending, quilting, those are my best times. Should I see a doctor?
It's just unconscious, we don't realise how much we're picking at all, i've even woken up to realise i was picking in my sleep
@@marsharansom3254id say from my personal experience, yes you probably should speak to somebody as that would classify as dermotillomania if you are unable to curb yourself of it, and especially if it is is impacting your social wellbeing.
Thank u for taking the time to watch this and understand us. I have found that I can draw really well and that is the best thing I have found that I get so hyper focused on like I do picking and it really helps me a lot. If I start picking I have to repeatedly have to tell myself to stop
I've been suffering with this condition for at least 20 years, and just recently I finally give a name to it thanks to person like you that talk about it on the internet. Thank you for your courage, guys that are reading this please remember that we're not alone fighting everyday with dermatillomania!
Try NAC supplement
My own family put me down for it...
A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC
I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me!
I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
Suffering for 50yrs!!
i feel and empathize with you so hard - i’m a survivor of childhood trauma and molestation from the hands of my father. my skin picking started manifesting in high school and got progressively worse around covid. my face and legs look exactly like yours. i dropped out in my third year of uni for music when my skin picking was at its worst. people thought i was doing opiates and i felt ashamed and couldn’t leave the house. i’m better now with it but haven’t been able to work since the skin picking became so debilitating, sacrificing my dream of becoming a musician. I’m on part time disability now and have no idea where my future is going.
“relapse” is the hardest and makes it feel like all your progress is gone. 30 minutes in a mirror destroying 2 weeks of healing bringing me right back to ground 0 again. I try to not give any f’s and i hope videos like this raise awareness and will help with empathy for this disorder.
Same here. But u still can do things in life, like clothes can hide skin and u go to work normally, u can wear makeup.
I did that and it is going ok.
For my skin picking i want to see a therapist soon. I advise u to do so if you can too.
I went through a similar childhood trauma. I developed my disorders about 12 yrs old. It is such a relief knowing that I am not alone dealing with the pulling and picking. God bless the wounded children both young and old.
Try NAC supplement
My own family put me down for it...
A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC
I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me!
I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
Wow…. I’m 55 and I have been suffering from this for. 50+ years!! Further more I have passed it onto my daughter to who suffers the same way, my arms and legs are like mottled with scars of all different shapes and sizes. I have never been to the drs with this, and execema hasn’t helped either. I will contact this group for tips about coping and diverting the mind away from the Feel of that “pop” below ur fingers, there is nothing that feels as good as that! Thank u for this!!❤
Fidget toys and different textured slimes aren't just for kids 😉 has helped me a lot personally. Gets the urge out and does no harm.
Have you ever thought about wearing gloves while you slept?
look up channel home stead how and the carnivore diet. this will help you to heal your body.
@@jansmith3158 Look up the millions of medical studies of what happens to your health with that diet. Please.
Its not a dissorder its just meth addiction sympthoms
I have this as well and recently learned that there is a dissociative quality to it for me, I pick more when I'm dissociating. in therapy for years my therapists would poke at my picking being anxiety / stress related and it never quite aligned completely. addressing the dissociative tendencies has helped me manage my picking a lot more than focusing on the picking directly ever has. I still scratch / pick but I've definitely done it less- when I have it's not as severe, and I'm no longer guilting myself about it. ironically not focusing on stopping has made me feel closer to stopping than I have in 15 years
i’m 20 got diagnosed last year. realizing that my “acne” is completely self-inflicted was a lot to process lol, but it makes a lot of sense now, and therapy has helped sooo much. i also struggle with body dysmorphia and ocd, which fuel my skin-picking… sending lots of love to everyone in the comments
yeah i dont understandw wht this whale isnt tryting therapy she seems addicted to her "meds"
Try NAC supplement
My own family put me down for it...
A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC
I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me!
I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
@@Chelzebelles I tried NAC and quit around day 50. I just didnt see any improvement. I'm struggling badly with it right now and im here to read the comments and see if there's another antidote. Thanks!
She seems like an awesome person.
100% she IS!!!!
I have a much milder version of this and often it comes up in awkward areas. The bathroom is indeed a triggering area.
It's made me feel unable to be sexual, I feel shame because of it even tho I have a loving partner.
I honestly feel that it's a maladaptive way for me to feel in control or productive thing that is compulsive. Recovery drug addict - I had it before I used drugs it's just that void inside of me that makes me need to do ANYTHING ELSE but feel my feelings
You don't recognize it as a behavioral addiction at this point? Because people can be addicted to anything. What if you treat it like you have treated the drug addiction?
@@prairieweaselbecause that’s not how BFRBs work
❤ thank you for sharing
Try NAC supplement
My own family put me down for it...
A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC
I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me!
I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
Girl I feel you.
I have spent my whole life fighting skin picking disease. Got diagnosed with cptsd some years ago. Also suffered severe depression and mental disorder. Not until a friend recommended me to psilocybin mushrooms treatment. Psilocybin treatment saved my life honestly. 8 years totally clean. Much respect to mother nature the great magic shrooms.
YES very sure of Dr.benfungi. I have the same experience with anxiety, depression, PTSD and addiction and Mushrooms definitely made a huge huge difference to why am clean today.
How do I reach out to him? Is he on insta
Yes he's Dr.benfungi.Shrooms to me is a natrual healer. I know a guy who has used mushrooms in the same way and they have really helped him. mah dudes have safe trips all.
From my experience it really works excellently! It doesnt even need to be a full hit. With potent shrooms 2-3 small ones will still make a difference. It will be a few hour cosy rumbling arount in bed time, not being able to sleep with a brain in full gear and some color effects on the walls but afterwards its just calm and you feel amazing and gain your freedom. Psilocybin is different dudes, its the only "drug" I would recommend to someone who genuinely wants to get better. There is no addiction, withdrawal, or negative side effects. It's just pure healing., far more effective than any anti-depressant. You can thank me later
Does he ship? Can he deliver to me here in Faroe Island 🇫🇴
I struggle with this too, it's been a very hard journey. It started for me as an early teenager first getting acne as well as developing eczema, which caused me to scratch myself constantly. Over the years, it progressively got worse. By the time I was 16-17, I had sores and scabs all over my body, as well as scars from previous spots I had picked at relentlessly.
I feel for the stuff she was talking about. I had to stop wearing white clothes for a while because they would get little blood stain dots on them from where I had picked. People would even think I was on drugs or something because of all the sores I had on my hands and arms. Other things like not wanting to go swimming (had scars on my chest from picking)... wearing hats and hoodies to make my face less visible, the list goes on and on.
I'm finally starting to get better with it (now 22, turning 23 in a few weeks), mainly due to me working hard to make positive changes in my life. I found that I was the worst with picking when I was feeling overwhelmed and stressed, it was like an escape where all I needed to focus on was a tiny spot on my skin rather than the countless other things I needed to get done or was worried about at the time.
I still do pick here and there, but it's far better than I was before. My scars are finally starting to fade away from when I was at my lowest points, and it gives me hope that one day I'll be done with picking once and for all.
For all those who deal with the same condition, all I can say is don't give up. It's pretty normal to stop for a few days only to relapse and spend 4 hours tearing yourself apart, and when you do, it's a horrible, shameful feeling. You won't get better overnight, I'm still not fully better myself, but it is possible to improve. I find it way more effective to try to boost your self esteem and improve yourself (self care, hobbies, having fun) than it is to shame yourself away from doing it, because that shame will pull you right back into the same old cycle.
I wish all of you luck! You aren't alone!
Omg, your comment about people thinking you do drugs because of the scars on your arms! The last time I went to donate blood, the nurse asked if I injected myself with anything, because of the spots where I had picked on the inside of my elbow (when I get sweaty in crevices like my elbow, i get little spots that I end up picking). I was so embarrassed. I lied and said it was just bad body acne. But I've never gone back to donate blood since.
Try NAC supplement
My own family put me down for it...
A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC
I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me!
I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
im 17 and i have eczema and i think i developed dermatillomania aswell. i scratch my scabs off every day and its routine, i have blood spots over my clothes and ot just makes me upset
She is so beautiful, brave, and strong! I’m so glad she has used her experience to help others!
If only I could properly describe how bad it hurts after a picking session. Especially after stopping for a few hours, and then forgetting how bad you picked, hopping in the shower, and putting the soap on your face, and shoulders! It burns so much. It went from only being my face, neck, and shoulders, to now, at 40 years old, I pick my arms and legs as well. So, even in the heat of a California summer, I have to wear long sleeves, and pants. 😢 thanks for talking about this, and vice for posting! It’s been about 23 years since I started this. 😢
sending love ♥, strength 💪, & awareness 👀, Aneela (HabitAware cofounder in trichotillomania recovery)
Try NAC supplement
My own family put me down for it...
A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC
I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me!
I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
I understand! This is the first time in probably 10 plus urs I’ve been comfortable wearing short sleeves and not wore long sleeves! It’s a terrible struggle daily but I am finding ways to help myself I still won’t wear shorts unless I wear tall socks which I wear silly socks and stuff and I started that at 13 when I started picking it’s now a part of my quirky personality. My scars on my legs r so bad and I have freckles on my arms so they help
Hide them but I don’t have them on my legs.
I have a similar condition under the dermatillomania umbrella where I pick at the skin on my lips. I’m 21 and I’ve been doing it for 6 years. It got so bad that I started isolating myself from everyone and lost some of my best friends in the process who I miss everyday. I’ve been to doctors, therapists, tried out various lip balms and products but nothing has stuck. The absolute worse part is how alone and helpless I feel because of the lack of resources on this condition and not knowing what direction to take anymore. I never imagined that I would be in this position and I let my condition severely define my life in every sense. This video makes me feel less alone, so thank you for sharing a story like this
I had that as a kid. What I realised later was I was chronically dehydrated, and that combined with lack of access to lipbalm mean they were always cracked and rough and thick. I'm sure you've thought about all the treatments already but have you tried drinking dramatically more water for a while? Also low iron can influence this behaviour.
Try NAC supplement
My own family put me down for it...
A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC
I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me!
I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
My picking was never as extreme as hers but I definitely feel her pain. Mine started as a way to stay awake in school bc I was struggling with undiagnosed narcolepsy d creating pain was the easiest way to stay awake in class. Then it just became habit...a very hard one to keep in check.
This made me cry. I've always felt so alone living with this disorder. Ive started to seek help, just waiting for things to work. You're an inspiration 💚
It's crazy to me that so many people in the comments have never heard of this when it's actually pretty common (different levels of severity depending on the person). Glad vice put something educational out. I've had this since childhood and the lack of awareness and judgement makes it so hard to live. So many more people out here struggle with this than anyone realizes. Chances are that you know a few. It's good to not feel alone. 💜
I'm 41 and have been living with skin picking since I was 5. The embarrassment is what stops me from confiding in people and those that know don't really understand that I'm not really in control of it and just can't stop. It is really hard living with this and I hope more people are aware of what skin picking disorder is and that we are not disgusting, but just really struggling mentally.
I take medication for diagnosed OCD and ive worked hard through therapies to learn not to engage in behaviors, to recognize what may set off a behavior and ask others to hold me accountable "I really want to wash my hands again, I know I already did, pls tell me not too" I also will avoid activities that might bring on a "feeling" of needing to engage in an ocd behavior. I'm really sorry your going through this, I can't help but think, a really good therapist and a diff medication geared more towards OCD could possibly help you manage and maintain a whole lot better. Keep moving forward and asking questions and looking for help. I think therapists who have alot of experience with OCD and possibly eating disorders - would be very very useful - I say eating disorders bc it's also has very repetitive behaviours in the way that it manifests and is maintained by folks.
Try NAC supplement
My own family put me down for it...
A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC
I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me!
I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
i have never felt more seen she is so honest and i really appreciate her bravery to speak on this so publicly
Thank you for sharing your story. I developed both dermatillomania and trichotillomania (hair pulling) after a traumatic event when I was 21. Sometimes the effects of my BFRBs are even worse than the effects of my PTSD. BFRBs can be so isolating because people really do not understand it and you feel gross or ugly after you have an episode. I’ve been late to meetings and events because I was unable to stop picking or pulling in time to leave. I am glad to see a mainstream news source talk about this.
Hey I have dermatillomania and ptsd as well. Not sure which is more difficult to overcome. I've definitely been late because of it before too. So glad people are finally starting to talk about this so we feel less "weird"
I’ve suffered from this at a lower level. I feel my vanity saved me from picking so much. Watching these shows, I learn but it does trigger me as well! By the end of this video I noticed I was picking at my fingers!
Thank you for sharing your story. I also suffer from skin picking and have never heard someone describe exactly what I experience. Thank you.
I’ve picked scabs (which I know isn’t exactly skin picking) for well over 30 years now. I still do to this very day. I’m happy I have a supportive spouse that while he doesn’t understand completely, doesn’t belittle me for it like others in my past have. Tysm for sharing this story. It’s made me feel seen and been very informative.
Me too
Try NAC supplement
My own family put me down for it...
A therapist finally told me what it really was & suggested NAC
I have experimented with it for years, it definitely works for me!
I take 3 600mb tablets per day, it usually takes around a month to really take effect
One of my dearest friends suffers from this disorder. It's so hard for her, and for a long time I couldn't understand what the problem really was about, because she was so secretive about it and also she manages to conceal it in various ways. It's a serious issue for one's mental health and also for skin health.
I have always listened to my friend, even when she refused to explain to me what the problem was, and I always tell her how much beautiful and kind and worthy of love she is.
I mysel suffer from anxiety and OCD, so I know the struggle of mental illnesses. But excoriation disorder (or skin picking disorder, or dermatillomania) is less known, so it's easier to conceal it.
I really hope neurosciences research will be able to find an effective treatment. Researches recently discovered links between OCD and ED.
Im so shocked to see so many people also suffer from this.
Im reaching 40 yrs old to this day im still told im a picker .
Ive always enjoyed popping spots and picking 5:18 but as ive got older its become an obsession and trying to explain the feeling of needing to do it is so hard to someone who doesnt understand.
I have had a skin condition since the age of 12 and have always made it worse by picking and its left me feeling awful about myself, ive spent the last 10 years in my home and only leave my house every 2 wks to go shopping . I have been making small steps to start changing and gaining my life back and watching this is truely helpful and knowing so many others are going through something similar is inspiring and given me a new boost of confidence. Thank you ❤
Same. I’ve lived with Dermatillomania for this same amount of time as well. Mine will ebb and flow. It was very, very bad in high school and I would spend hours in the bathroom or my bedroom. I’ve tried three different anti-anxiety medications and two did nothing at all, and that I tried a couple years ago actually made it way worse so I stopped it after a month. Strangely enough, I also do a sport similar to what she did and I’ve experienced the same thing as she did with her tights. I’ve also had to get REALLY good at makeup especially on my arms and legs. It’s a never ending battle. The thing that has helped me the most was the most seemingly the most contradictory and that was just accepting it. I’m grateful mine never led to any severe infections or hospital stays. This lady is so incredibly courageous to bring this disorder to light.
I struggle with dermatophagia I feel like I can relate somewhat although her condition was a lot more extreme.
I go through episodes of dermatillomania, and I’m currently battling a severe episode of Trichotillomania, another form of body-focused repetitive behavior. The hair pulling became so overwhelming that I finally had to shave my head last year. I pull every time it grows long enough to grab and still need to keep it shaved. I’m sick of wigs and I miss my real hair. Thank you for sharing your story, Lauren. I wish more people understood what it’s like to live with this condition.
Thank you. My oldest daughter has this. I am so grateful you did this video.
I’ve been dealing with this since my father was in an accident in 2007. And trich. It started with trich and I would pick very specific hairs, my eyelashes: it had to be black at the root, wouldn’t stop until I got the one I was trying to get; my hair: had to be very curly or black at the root.
The skin picking started after I had a calcium knot. It was at that point that I couldn’t help myself. I’m scarred all over at this point. I had to stop shaving my legs because I would pick hairs growing in and suddenly having big red spots that then became staph. I’ve never been naked in front of anyone, I don’t think I ever will be able to be and I know that no man will look at me and think I’m beautiful because I’m covered in scars. It was only until recently that I stopped to realize this is a form of self-harm, but I have not learned anything in the last 15 years in terms of coping. It’s not on a priority list for a lot of therapists. Especially since I haven’t done enough damage to end up in the hospital. Which also leads me to think that what I have done isn’t that damaging. But it’s the only thing that gets me through the day. I still have trich too, it’s just changed from needing black roots to needing gray hairs.
I’m so sorry for everything you’ve been through! Please 🙏 remember that you ARE beautiful! The outer appearance really doesn’t make someone beautiful, it’s the heart and soul!
I too have suffered from trich since I was about 10 or 11. Nothing has ever helped me. It has been hell. I have been ashamed and hopeless for years.
Woah, I just left a comment saying I started doing something similar to this ever since my pregnancy last year and the events that transpired since, all of which have been extremely stressful and depressing and I wonder if I started as a defense mechanism to those stressful events. What I do is feel run my fingers down the length of my head hairs bc I like feeling the new texture. My pregnancy changed my hair and caused some to become wavy and crinkled feeling. These are the ones I like feeling. I don’t pick them out tho, but I wonder if I will progress as well.
@@stancexpunks it changes over time for me. I still pull lashes but no one near what I use to. I would have gaping spots and couldn’t hide it. Hair you can kinda move around to cover areas but can’t do that with lashes.
Aside from trich, I am on a kick of picking my breasts and my face and dammit I get so in the zone of it then finally snap out of it and want to cry. I keep thinking about getting rid of my mirror, but that would only stop me from looking at my face.
Just remember that this is fairly new, in terms of diagnosing, and hopefully we can find more help for it as time passes. You’re not alone
@@knockharder3554 I hope we can all find help ❤️ it’s not easy, a lot of people still don’t know much about these coping mechanisms and can’t understand it, but the more we put our stories out there, the more people see us and try to understand.
Hi Lauren! I almost passed over this video thinking it had nothing to do with my life, that is until I looked down for the billionth time to see tweezers pulling out my fingernails. Although it isn't quite the same, I have been using teeth and tools to pull out my finger and toe nails for 53 years. I understand the compulsion completely, knowing you can't stop (even though you want to), that in the moment the pain is a "good feeling" even though the hurting will be severe the next day, and that you are made fun of due to blood staining your skin. I am grateful that you shared your story and that you became a positive influence and help to others! God bless your healing!
I'm so glad you were able to find valid help for your disorder!! I've dealt with Trichotillomania for years!! Lash pulling was a big problem for me!! Anxiety plays a major role!! Everyday is a real challenge. I wish you much peace & strength on your journey!!❤
Jarrache mes cils despuis lage 7 -8 ans heureuseumen je fai moin mais a la place je fai aux jambes
Thanks for giving this coverage.
However, I don't skin pick, I hair pull. I get the tweezers out and pluck hairs all over for hours on end.
I hope people with OCD can get to place in their lives where they can manage these compulsions. Fascinating how the mind. works.
Tweezers and a mirror r my worst enemy I’ll
Spend hrs picking my fiancé hides my tweezers
I do both nonstop and it's exhausting.
One psychiatrist told me he believes 1/4 People have skin picking disorder. It's under reported. A nurse recently told me the same thing.
I feel less alone. I've picked since I can remember. My mother picked. My son struggles not to pick. When i tell friends a good chunk admits they pick too. We are not alone.
Heck maybe even more than that. Everyone's just felt too ashamed and judged to talk about it. If you think about it, every single human being has picked their skin at some point in their life. Some people just have the compulsion that never ends. I have it too. Best thing ever was when I found a support group for it and realized I wasn't the only one. 😊
25% of people do not have this disorder and if a mental health professional told you that you should seek a different provider.
@@ItBeThatWaySometimes Think about how many people pop their pimples or pick scabs. Chances are, you've done it yourself. This disorder can be mild, moderate, severe, etc. Just like any other illness. The lady in the video has a more severe case. Chances are that you know quite a few people with the milder version.
@@breezystl777 popping pimples does not meet the diagnostic criterion for this disorder
@@ItBeThatWaySometimes I'm aware. But it's the same exact behavior. People usually dont talk about this or tell anyone if they're struggling due to the judgement and nasty comments they'll receive. Including healthcare providers. It is underdiagnosed which means it's incorrectly recorded in statistics. This disorder also exists on a spectrum. It's not like you do a checklist from the DSM-5 and if you get a certain score, you have it. That's not how diagnostics work in psychology. There are other factors to consider when making a diagnosis.
This video came in at the right time for me because I've been going through this since I was 15. I'm now with a psychiatrist and need to speak about it.
yes! speak out - release the secret. healing is possible! love ♥, strength 💪, & awareness 👀, Aneela (HabitAware cofounder in trichotillomania recovery)
Thank you for mentioning and talking about this kind of skin conditions. I’m living with a very annoying and painful condition called keratosis lichenoids chronica and have since birth, alongside with a very dry and thin skin texture. I’ve been taking isotrerinoin for 5 years now with some off periods between these years to keep it easier on my health. And yet there’s no cure or a specific treatment for my condition. Hope the best for anyone suffering with this type of diseases or anything else!
damn, omg I did this too
it's mostly bumps on my skin, and scalp and it's been maybe like 12-15 ish years (because I'm trying to remember when it began) but it makes total sense I suffer from many different types of traumas, I have cptsd (from growing up with a narcissistic mother and only realizing it at 38 yrs old and being sexually abuse when I was a teen by my "father", being in and out of foster homes, shelters, ocd, anxiety, depression, I lock my wrists when I sleep and grind my teeth from the tension in my body, GERD, PCOS, IBS, and I'm on disability now because it's crippled me and my life. I'm finally getting professional help but it's going to be a long road I'm sure because it took a lifetime to have it happen to me I'm sure it takes a while for it to heal too. Thank you for sharing your story. You aren't alone
Girl I feel this. I'm sorry, and hope things get better for you. I've never been diagnosed but have had this for year on and off, sometimes are worse then others, stress. The worst part is once I start it have keep going as I just created an imperfection, it's a horrible cycle. Debilitating sometimes, some days I were so embarrassed so go out because I didn't want people to see my face or if going to the beach I feel shame about people seeing all the scars I have created on my own or open scabs/wounds. I have managed in different forms. Right now what is working for me is have long acrylic nails, and also tried gloves but that hasn't worked. But the 💅 I get them done and they are so long and dull it is so hard for me to get any bleeding/scratching done ✔️ 👍. Little costly but it works for me, hope this helps someone.
Thank you for making this video. I’ve been struggling with this my entire life. It’s been a battle but I feel like I’m finally getting control of it. Some days can be bad but I still work at it everyday. Glad there is people talking about it more ❤
This is my hands. You can’t explain it, and there’s no real treatment. It’s wild.
Your hands are beautiful and unique, they have a purpose beyond self harm and daily bs, they are meant for legendary things, find what you love and dedicate your hands to it.
This is why I hate being vulnerable and commenting on yt because you get idiots like these ⬆️⬆️⬆️
Me too! This sounds crazy but try getting a manicure with rhinestones (or adding them with polish at home). It’s the only thing that I’ve found that works when I’m stressed. I can push on the hard and get the same pain feedback or try to pick them off.
@@MeganVideoBlog I’ve tried everything. When I have a manicure my nails looks great, but the skin around my fingers still gets picked at and bleeds. I even have gloves I wear most of the time, but I can’t wear gloves 24/7, I’ve tried lol
@claire-f try adding crystals sometime. I look like Cardi B and it doesn’t last but it really helps me
I used to spend several hours in the mirror picking. I try to keep it under an hour. My main spots are my scalp, face, legs, and fingers. One time I picked at my nose and it got SUPERRR infected and tripled in size on one size. It was so painful. It takes weeks to months for any type of wound to heal. My cheek recently got really big and painful from picking. I’ve also pulled up nail beds. It’s exhausting, constantly searching for something to pick at.
Dermatilomania is what i dealt with from Eczema
Im now 4 years clean from that
I wish this person finds a solution or a less painful resource
amazing to see the amount of progress she’s already made and all these valuable tricks to help other who may be struggling with the same symptoms ❤
I was unaware that it had a name. It is frightening how frighteningly relatable this situation is, and it is difficult to quit.
Thank you endlessly for being so brave and sharing your story. I too have lived with this disorder since I can remember. I remember being 2 years old and having to take liquid antibiotics for all the infected sores all over my legs and arms. As an adult it deeply affected my marriage as well. During my divorce my ex told me that he lost attraction to me sexually because of my skin picking.
Luckily being treated for severe anxiety with medication & therapy, along with yoga, meditation, exercise, and a healthy diet has fully ended my compulsive picking. Though, like you, I also have to be aware of triggers. And during times of high stress I have to consciously fight the urge to pick.
I honestly never thought I’d talk about this. But you’ve given me the courage to do so by having spoken about it here. So, eternal thanks to you & Vice for giving a voice to those of who suffer with this disorder.
Im a master student right now. I did therapy for a client with this type of diagnosis. They also had tricolliomania. I enjoy helping others be more aware and overcoming these disorders. Thank you for sharing your story.
My sister has that, she pulls her eyebrows out. Even if people tell you are doing it, the compulsion is there and you just can't seem to stop. Her's is also predominantly anxiety-related.
Thank you for what you're doing. 💜 Hoping to get my master's as well in counseling.
@@leighowen4345 Anxiety is definitely one of the root causes of it. Glad your sister has someone who is aware of what this is and how it works. 💜
I feel this so much, thank you for speaking out! The bathroom is also the worst place for me, when I pick I lose track of time and I don't even realize I'm doing it. When my acne and picking were really bad, I used to always take off my glasses to look at the bathroom mirror since I am near sighted and cannot see well without glasses
I don't have this to the extent of having a disorder, but I do struggle with skin-picking, and occasionally I have gotten infections. It's this crazy obsession (I do have a diagnosis of OCD) where I am obsessed with my fingers looking perfect, and I will pull all the cuticles off them to the point of pain and bleeding. It's a big enough pain for me, I can't imagine what people with the actual disorder go through.
Same! Ive picked at my fingers until they bleed since i can remember. Also diagnosed with OCD.
I'm a nail picker too. I always have scabs/cuts/sores on at least half of my fingers. And it really sucks when it expands from your cuticles further up your finger. I've only just healed from a pick that ended up extending to the first finger joint. That was embarrassing to go to work with.....
Yep!! I pick constantly at my cuticles, occasionally with my bare hands but usually with an implement such as a safety pin or a staple. I also pick my scalp, face and arms. Diagnosed with OCD as well, also autism spectrum disorder and CPTSD. Been doing it for around 5 years, my cuticles noticeably begin earlier on my hands. I'm terrified that I'm going to push my cuticles back so far that they no longer anchor my fingernails and I'll lose one or more nails.
The medication she talked about made me unable to wake up from a nightmare I was having. I only took it one day and gave up. While I adore her for coming out with this, I recommend us learning from medical professionals rather than associating our own issues with hers because she is kind enough to share her story.
The hardest part for me is recognizing why I start picking in the first place. I know we are supposed to find our triggers but this is one thing I do without an obvious trigger. I have anxiety disorders and depression so I’m fairly good at pinpointing triggers for those disorders, but skin-picking is such an auto-pilot thing for me. I’m sure there ARE triggers but I just can’t figure out what is causing me to lose hours a day to this stuff. I’m glad she mentioned that trance-like state. It’s so frustrating to go on to the point of exhaustion sometimes. I’m typing this with a bandaid over my nose. I think I need to wear mittens too, lol.
Such a brave young woman who has created a support network where there wasn’t one. Good for you. ❤
YESSS!!!! Lauren is amazing.
I love the supportiveness of the comments… this is definitely a hidden disability and affects many of us so so deeply. It’s heartbreaking but knowing it’s not as uncommon is so comforting ❤️
I've had this problem my whole life and didn't realize it was an actual disorder
thank you so much for having a platform for BFRB‘s - I also suffer from trichotillomania and dermatillomania, I am happy that people get more informed about these.
I've also suffered from this condition since 4:00 or 5 years old. My target areas are my legs and the skin around my fingernails. I just turned 40 in July and my index, thumb and middle finger on both hands have become misshapened from so many years of zoning out and chewing and picking the skin around those three fingers the most. So my fingers have grown I guess a little off-kilter because I have been doing it for so long. The only thing I can find that truly helps me not chew or pick the skin around my fingernails is getting my nails done. Honestly, it stops me completely and I wish insurance would cover having full sets of acrylic nails done for people who suffer with this condition. Because I have talked to other people who say that they have anxiety and they'll chew the crap out of their fingernails and the only thing that helps them is having their nails done with acrylic. Since it is finally diagnosable I feel like insurance should cover that. I think it would be amazing because it helps you when you are depressed or anxious feel good about yourself when you have your nails done. It also stops getting infections. Feeling insecure about myself because I have to wear Band-Aids on every single finger. That drives me insane by the way. I'm on anxiety medications and depression medications and it helps but it isn't a cure. I hate being on those meds. Just talking about it gives me anxiety. So I'm going to sign off and stop talking about this. But it's nice to know I'm not alone. Thank you for sharing your story. Also thank you everyone else in the comment section for sharing their stories as well. 🫶🏻
I've been there with the bandaids on each finger. The best ones are the waterproof tough strips. I've resolved to wear them until the problem is fixed but then I hate them at the same time, and don't want to keep buying bandaids. It's an outlet for my anxiety that mainly comes on at work and I really wish it could be channeled through deep breathing or something healthy like that!
this. i literally have finger bunions.. fml.
I pick at my skin and hairline since I was a child and I’m 33 now. It’s definitely not as severe as hers but I could relate a little. I hope this video helps others.
How's your skin now?
@@Ldr1999 I have mild acne scarring on my face but my hairline is thinned out 🫤and I’m pretty sure it’s from my scalp picking all these years.
I don’t know if I have quite this issue, but there are plenty of times I idly pick at like, ingrown hair scabs or whatever. I know it’ll heal if I don’t touch it, but it’s a hard obstruction on smooth skin, and “it needs to go.” And then that makes it worse. I think the only thing that has helped me to stop picking, stop biting my nails, stop neglecting self-care, has been to think of myself as “preserving my body for the woman I’ll transition to.” That’s not for everyone, but it has gotten me to reduce my urges.
This is the first video I’ve found where I don’t feel alone! Thank you so very much! I am a Christian and prayed for God to help me figure this out for soooo long! I can not even begin to tell you how grateful I am that he led you in my path🙏🥰 Your testimony is so important and inspiring to so many who suffer from this like myself! Again thank you for sharing
What a wonderful beautiful gift is your bold courageous up close willingness to share this!
I remember when it all started. I was around 16 and I had no idea at the time what it was and most importantly that I was suffering from anxiety. Every time I heard about it, I wondered what anxiety felt like, not knowing I had it all along. It took 7 years to understand I had anxiety and I'm so grateful to have gotten a lot better. There were many nights spent picking at my skin, the blood no cause for concern as BFRB doesn't care, it wants what it has a problem with, gone. I have ridges on my nails from the trauma of picking, but my scars are few. I wish in school I had been taught about mental health and the importance of getting therapy. I wish for anyone struggling to be able to fight and live a great life! 💙
I also struggle from this and it's very validating to hear her talk. I also really admire all the way she's learned to cope with urges and channel them into not-so-destructive outlets
I have also lived with this my whole life thank u for sharing. No one ever understands and I’ve never been able to put it into words like some of y’all have. My daughter found this and sent it to me and was like wow mom I never realized how common and how hard it is for u! I cried so hard bc I
Felt like I was listening and watching myself. I sent it to my mom and she was like oh wow it has a name!! She said she read the comments and it felt like she was talking to me! Now my family can understand it’s not just something I do bc I want to. It’s a real thing a real problem! When I say I can’t help it and they say I don’t know why! It makes me sad.
You are an incredible person thank you for sharing your story and bringing awareness ❤️
That looks really painful. 😞 I'm glad she seems to have a good handle on her skin picking disorder at the moment!
So good that you are helping others while helping yourself. You’re very brave.
I had this after a very stressful situation. I picked mainly on my scalp. One day I just stopped. It was prayers and faith in God that really helped.
I love Lauren and am thankful that she has spread so much great information around.
It's like a serious addiction. I used to do it for seven years.
A vicious psychological cycle: feeling anxious/depressed -> picking skin to feel better -> seeing what you have done to your whole body and feeling even worse/ashamed and agoraphobic -> picking your skin to feel better. and all over again.
I healed psychologically and now i only do it when i have panic attacks or disappointment feelings. I caught staphylococcus and other infections and none of it stopped me. Other people used to tell me like i looked like i was beaten up. I also developed a essential tremor in my hand at 20 which make things even more difficult, maybe my body send me signals to stop hurting it.
Aww her interaction with her dog was so cute. You can tell she really loves her dog!
I relate to this 100%. Thank you for speaking up about this! Mine has gotten better now but I always avoid turning on the lights and looking at the mirror closely. ❤
Yes, I do have this, perhaps not on this level but I pick on my upper arms all the time, keep finding little bumps to burst, plus I pick on my lips, especially if stressed or tired. When I was a teen my forehead looked like a minefield because I couldn't stop picking on any pimple that would show. It's really debilitating especially stuff like lip picking as I don't realise until I've made myself bleed. Thank you for sharing your story and for all other folks with the same problem, you are not alone.
I have this, it's not as bad these days, started with my acne, i would pick it all and make it scar up, then the skin around my nails, i would pick and bite till it bleed and not notice, chunks of skin around my nails I would peel off, mostly anxiety induced from an abusive household/perfection and agoraphobia... Happy this is being talked about! 💗
That is so cool that she took her suffering and made it into something to not only help herself but others through this non profit organization - inspiring !!
I feel incredibly seen watching this. I have been struggling with dermatillomania for 10 years. Specifically, I pick the worst at my face and the heels of my feet. I managed to stop picking at the heels of my feet for a year or two but relapsed last year and have been picking my heels ever since. I’m so embarrassed and ashamed about it and up until recently I hadn’t told anyone I relapsed. I finally admitted that it’s getting worse and I need help to stop. I still have yet to stop picking at my face. I have made horrible, infected, bloody scabs on my face and sometimes it’s so bad I don’t want to show up to work from the shame I feel. I connected so much with her statement about trying to put makeup over a freshly picked scab and it not covering it. I’ve had that happen far too often. Doctors and dermatologists were always dismissive, never cementing the diagnosis but I just know. I know this is what I struggle with. To all of my fellow skin pickers, you are not alone. You are not disgusting or strange. It’s a process to quit, believe me when I say that, but you can do this!
I didnt know there was a name for it. Too relatable is scary day to day life is hard living like this and its hard to stop
A newer term that's also used is excoriation disorder.
there is a subreddit for support for this, people document their healing journey on it. i have had this for many years and was in a psychology class when i learned about it and basically checked every requirement for a diagnosis. it feels as if you're in a trance. i'm 25 now and it has gotten better, but it's still not completely away especially when i start breaking out or get stressed
thank you Lauren!!! proud to know you!!! & grateful for your bravery and vulnerability to raise awareness and support the BFRB community. You have shown how life threatening this condition is and how the community deserves to be taken seriously. Bless you. love ♥, strength 💪, & awareness 👀, Your friend in Advocacy + Awareness, Aneela (HabitAware cofounder in trichotillomania recovery)
it's so nice to see this talked about. i'm looking to get a diagnosis but i've been dealing with this for ages. i pick at my face when i can, my legs when i can, my shoulders, and my breasts, pretty much anywhere i can find somewhere to pick at, but mostly at my fingers, which is the biggest issue. my fingers are often in pain because of the raw skin and i have to cover up bleeding quite a lot. i do have a lot of anxiety but it's way deeper than that, spreading awarness about this is so important. i didn't realize it was a real problem for the longest time.
Wow this is an amazing story. Good job vice.
I'm also a skin picker (along with dermatophagia), but I'm doing better now and understand my triggers. Something that hurts the most hearing from other people is how "gross" they think it is, which is the last thing you need to hear. The whole reason I picked was as an attempt to reach perfection, so when someone reminds you of how disgusting you are, it just makes it worse. Extend a bit of compassion instead of stigmatizing compulsive behaviors. Thank you for speaking up and being an advocate for BFRB support and awareness!
I feel seen! I’m 49, and I’ve been doing this ever since I can remember, mainly focused on my fingers but also elsewhere if the “need” arises (scabs, etc). The skin around my fingernails is permanently discolored and pink, and I have scars on my legs especially.
I’ve been picking since I was 7, I remember my aunt telling me how ugly it looked asking why I did it and saying how ugly I was going to look in pictures.
I WAS SEVEN.
For me, getting tattoos has kind of helped. The healing phase is stressful but as soon as it’s over I don’t want to pick at and ruin the art.
I had a birth defect, was also in an incubator for almost 2 months so we have that in common. Never thought about it.
I've had mild trich for years, mainly around my beard. I've been asked why I don't just shave the beard, but when I do I pick at my lips and it's much worse. It's never been severe, but I'm definitely self conscious about it. I've found some fidget rings have helped, or even putting band-aids on my finger tips to make gripping hairs impossible.
So glad I watched this! I’ve been suffering with this for years & im constantly asked why I can’t just stop picking!
Thank you for sharing this. I have this and also compulsive plucking of hairs/ingrowns.
I'm getting better, and learning how to deal with it.
If you're reading this and feel alone and hopeless, know that you are neither and you are loved.
💜