[sun_flower]

I pick at my skin, compulsively. I pick my face (I have scars) but I generally try to pick in places that aren't noticeable to others. Like my scalp, back or upper arms. It's a huge problem for me.
I have told two psychiatrists about this, and various therapists and they never address it. They say it's OCD and that's it. Medications that I have taken or take now don't do a thing for me.

In my opinion, this is serious and I've done it for years. I want to stop but I can't.

Any advice?

[Christina86]

(((((((sun_flower))))))))))

If the medications don't work, then perhaps you need to strongly tell the psychiatrists that you want to STOP the behaviour and the current meds aren't working.

Are you in therapy right now? I believe (don't quote me on it) that there are different kinds of therapy that may be able to help with compulsive behaviours. Maybe something to look into?

[salukigirl]

I'm the same way. I pick at everything. I bite my nails and my cuticles. I often pick at things without even thinking then realize I'm bleeding. My boyfriend gets upset and always grabs my hand away and asks me to stop but most of the time it's subconscious. I'm on lexapro for anxiety but haven't noticed any changes in my OCD.

I guess I don't really have advice because I haven't found a solution either but just letting you know that you're not alone. I hope you can get help from someone.

[salukigirl]

http://www.ocdla.com/compulsiveskinpicking.html

found this website. hope it helps.

[sun_flower]

Originally Posted by Christina86

(((((((sun_flower))))))))))

If the medications don't work, then perhaps you need to strongly tell the psychiatrists that you want to STOP the behaviour and the current meds aren't working.

Are you in therapy right now? I believe (don't quote me on it) that there are different kinds of therapy that may be able to help with compulsive behaviours. Maybe something to look into?

Yes, I am in therapy, and the therapist hasn't taken it seriously, either. I think it's because they haven't seen me in picking mode, and they can't see the scabs/sores for themselves.

Thanks for your input.

[sun_flower]

Originally Posted by salukigirl

I'm the same way. I pick at everything. I bite my nails and my cuticles. I often pick at things without even thinking then realize I'm bleeding. My boyfriend gets upset and always grabs my hand away and asks me to stop but most of the time it's subconscious. I'm on lexapro for anxiety but haven't noticed any changes in my OCD.

I guess I don't really have advice because I haven't found a solution either but just letting you know that you're not alone. I hope you can get help from someone.

When I was younger, I picked and bit my nails. Seems like I have moved on to picking skin for one reason or another.
I think a lot of mine is subconscious, too. I really, really, really want and need to stop this behavior.

((hugs)) to you.