Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, many have noticed an uptick in compulsive behaviors such as skin picking and nail biting. My daughter, for instance, has developed a habit of twisting her hair. She often pulls it, twists it, and runs her fingers through it, making a distinct sound as it moves. I’ve observed her doing this since she was a toddler, even before she had enough hair to play with—back then, she would do it to my hair while I carried her.
It’s something I know all too well, as I’ve been doing it myself during times of stress or anxiety. My parents frequently urged me to stop, with my grandmother even suggesting that I’d struggle to find a partner if I didn’t quit fiddling with my hair.
I’ve caught myself engaging in this behavior during moments when my mind wanders, such as during intimate moments or while socializing with friends. There have been times when I’ve realized my arm has gone numb because I’ve been pulling at my hair for too long.
Since the lockdown began last March, my daughter has escalated her hair twisting, especially every morning. She twirls it while eating, studying, and even in the car. I’ve also noticed an increase in my own hair fiddling, as it serves as a way to relieve stress.
My partner has developed a habit of biting his nails, something he rarely did before. The pressures of running his own business amid the pandemic have certainly contributed to this change.
The Impact of the Pandemic on Compulsive Behaviors
Recent surveys indicate that 67.2% of individuals with body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) have experienced an increase in these habits since the pandemic began. According to the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, while the study had limitations, it underscores the psychological toll of the pandemic, with many reporting heightened distress linked to their BFRBs.
Approximately 1 in 20 individuals are affected by BFRBs. Although the exact causes remain unclear, experts suggest that genetics and personality traits are significant factors. According to WebMD, heightened tension and anxiety can trigger these behaviors, making the pandemic a likely catalyst for their escalation.
For those already prone to these habits, the stress of the past year has made them even more pronounced. For instance, I regularly pull at my hair on a normal day, so during a crisis like COVID-19, my compulsion to engage in this familiar behavior has intensified. Many people find that having something to do with their hands helps calm their nerves.
When to Seek Help
While we all have our quirks, it becomes problematic when compulsive behaviors feel uncontrollable and lead to physical harm. If you’re finding that your skin picking, hair pulling, or nail biting is causing significant damage, it may be time to seek help.
Healthline suggests that if you’re biting your nails until they bleed or picking at your skin excessively, it’s wise to explore treatment options. Approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, medications such as Prozac or Zoloft, and natural remedies like acupuncture or massage can be beneficial. Finding alternative activities, like chewing gum, can also help.
Understanding your triggers is vital. As Harvard Health notes, if your compulsive behavior is linked to a skin condition, consulting a dermatologist might be a good first step. Additionally, using distractions like fidget toys or stress balls can provide relief.
Telling friends and family about your intentions to curb these behaviors can also foster accountability. This support can motivate you to succeed in overcoming these challenges, allowing you to manage anxiety in healthier ways.
Finding What Works for You
If you’re grappling with compulsive behaviors, it’s crucial to find what works for you. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution; it’s all about discovering techniques that help you regain control and preserve your self-esteem.
For more tips and insights, check out our other blog post on self-care during challenging times. And if you’re interested in natural remedies, Aloe Vera is an excellent resource for skin health. For those considering pregnancy options, in vitro fertilisation provides valuable information.
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Summary
The pandemic has exacerbated compulsive behaviors like skin picking and nail biting, affecting many individuals. Stress and uncertainty have contributed to the rise of these habits, prompting the need for awareness and effective coping strategies. Seeking help and exploring various treatment options can aid in managing these behaviors and restoring a sense of control.