A skin picking known as "Excoriation Disorder" (skin picking) and hair pulling disorder, known as "Trichotillomania" (hair pulling), are mental health conditions characterized by repetitive, compulsive picking at one's skin or pulling out one's hair, often leading to visible skin lesions or hair loss, causing significant distress and impairment in daily life; both disorders are classified as "Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs)" and are typically treated with behavioral therapies.
Key points about skin picking and hair pulling disorders:
Symptoms:
· Recurrent picking at the skin or pulling out hair, often focused on specific areas.
· Difficulty resisting the urge to pick or pull.
· Visible skin lesions or bald patches due to picking/pulling.
· Feelings of shame, anxiety, and distress related to the behavior.
Social Impact:
Both skin picking and hair pulling can significantly impact social life due to feelings of shame and attempts to conceal the behavior.
Co-occurring conditions:
Often associated with other mental health issues like anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Early intervention:
Early diagnosis and treatment can be crucial for managing symptoms and preventing further distress.