Hello ladyrevan21: Over the years I've pursued allot of these nervous habit type things. I'm too old for zits at this point. But when I was young I certainly picked my share of those too. Each time I would manage to break myself of one habit, I'd find something else to take it's place. The point being... your picking is mostly, I believe, a symptom of underlying anxiety. As you noted, you usually end up picking when you are distressed. So really what needs to happen here is you need to deal with the anxiety. Otherwise, even if you find a way to stop picking zits, chances are you'll just find something else to help you relieve the stress you are feeling.

As far as the zit picking itself goes... keep your fingernails trimmed very short, wear gloves. If you don't have too many zits at one time, at least when you're alone, cover them with band aids. Also possibly see a dermatologist. S/he may be able to prescribe some type of topical cream, or other treatment, that will help minimize the condition. There may also be dietary changes you can make that will help. Good luck!