*TRIG* Skin Picking

So I've stopped cutting for now... but I've moved onto skin picking... I'm addicted... my hands search for blemishes on every inch of my body to pick at... and I've made a mess out of my breasts and chest... I'm ashamed because I think it's a beautiful part of my body and I've RUINED them! *cries* it will NEVER heal!!! it's been like this for 3 weeks I want to stop but I just cannot!!! I won't let them heal!!!

I went throught the same thing when I stopped addictively cutting. Picking at scabs unconsciously, even in the middle of a conversation, and making my self bleed. What really helped at that time was my friends. They kept an eye out and would slap my hand down, sometimes repeatedly. I'd be like "Oh, was I doing it again?" Is there anyone who's around a lot that can keep an eye out and give you friendly reminders? Another way to curb the habit would be habit replacemet. Try something that just keeps your hands busy but doesn't take too much concentration. Like making friendship bracelets. There's some simple patterns that you can do without even looking, so you can concentrate on other things but keep your hands out of trouble. You know what they say about idle hands, lol.
It's good that you've made this progress. It's a big step in the right direction.
You will heal, in time. I'm sure you will still be lovely once you've given your self time for healing.

There are also rubber finger tip covers that letter sorters use to protect their fingers. You could use them at home to protect your skin from your fingers. Probably not the best idea for when you are out in public though.
Carrie

thanks for the idea I know what you're talking about... I work at Office Max, it would be ok because usually I'm distracted enough in public to not do it