This disease occurring on the skin is called dermatomania, know the causes and symptoms of this disease.

Have you ever found yourself obsessively picking at your skin? Even to the extent of causing wounds or scars? If so, you may be struggling with dermatillomania, also known as skin picking disorder or excoriation disorder. It is a mental health condition that involves repetitive and compulsive skin picking, causing significant distress and impairment in daily life. This article explores the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for dermatillomania.

While most people pick at their skin occasionally, in dermatillomania, the behavior becomes uncontrolled and persistent. Individuals with this condition may notice real or perceived imperfections, such as scabs, pimples, bumps, or even healthy skin. They may use their fingers, tweezers, or other instruments to pick, scratch, or cut their skin, often causing scabs, wounds, and infection.

Dermatillomania causes

The exact cause of dermatillomania is not completely understood, but it is thought to be a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. Individuals with a history of anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or other mental health problems may be at higher risk of developing dermatillomania. Stressful life events or trauma may also contribute to the onset of this condition.

Dermatillomania Symptoms

Frequent peeling of the skin

 This can range from a minor scratch to a wound or serious damage.

The person may experience itching

Individuals feel an overwhelming urge to choose, even when they know it is harmful.

Shame and trouble

Choosing behavior and its consequences can cause significant emotional distress and social isolation.

Skin damage

Scarring, scabbing, and infection are common physical consequences of pecking.

Disadvantages in daily life

The compulsion to choose can interfere with work, relationships, and daily activities.

Dermatillomania treatment

Dermatillomania is a treatable condition, and various approaches can be effective. This includes.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals identify and challenge negative thoughts and beliefs that contribute to selective behavior. Through techniques such as exposure and response prevention, people learn to resist the urge to choose and develop coping mechanisms to manage stress and anxiety. This therapy focuses on replacing choosing behaviors with healthy coping mechanisms, such as fidgeting with stress balls or applying lotion to affected areas.

Medicine

In some cases, antidepressant or anti-anxiety medications may be helpful in managing underlying mood disorders that may contribute to dermatillomania.

Support Group

Connecting with others who understand the challenges of dermatillomania can provide invaluable support and encouragement.

Dermatillomania is a challenging disorder that can have a significant impact on a person’s physical and emotional well-being. Understanding its causes, recognizing the symptoms and adopting appropriate treatment options are important steps towards managing and overcoming this condition.