How can I stop picking at my fingernails?

Well I have this problem. I can’t seem to stop picking at the skin on my fingers. It has come to a point to where the end parts surrounding my fingernails are a white-like color. My skin color is brown, and people seem to notice it a lot when they look at my fingers. Also, I’m pretty sure that they are infected because the color of them says it all. I don’t know why I pick at the skin on my fingers. I just can’t help it. I pick at them when I’m sad, happy, or just plain bored. When people ask me what has happened to them, I simply lie and say that I fell off my bike and they’re like dang it did all that. Some of my family members think that I have a serious disorder and that I should see a doctor or someone to talk to me. The thing is that it is hard to talk about it to anyone especially my family. What do you think would help me to stop doing all that?

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Answer #1

You could try wearing gloves, no matter what the weather is. That would help to remind you not to pick at yourself.

Talking to a counselor or therapist might be a good idea even though it might be embarrassing to talk about. He or she might be able to give you more tips on distracting yourself and healthier ways to channel your emotions.

Answer #2

I have the same problem with biting my nails off. The only thing you can really do is distract yourself.

How can I stop picking at my fingernails?

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