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ometimes people find themselves doing things without even realizing it, like twirling their hair, picking at their skin, or biting their nails. These little habits are what we call Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors or BFRBs for short. They’re like those chill moments when you’re lost in thought and doodling on a piece of paper. It’s somewhat soothing, right?
But here’s the thing: for some people, these behaviors can go a bit further. They might start pulling out their hair, picking at their skin a bit too much, or gnawing on their nails without even realizing it. It’s like these habits take on a life of their own. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not trying to be strict here, I’m merely shedding light on how these behaviors can sometimes become a bit of a challenge for people.
What are Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs)?
Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors are those little habits people have, the ones they engage in over and over again without even thinking about it. These behaviors usually involve touching or manipulating the body in some way. As mentioned earlier, this includes things like hair pulling, skin picking, or nail biting.
While these behaviors might start as small and innocent, they can sometimes become a bit more intense. People might do them when stressed, anxious, or just lost in thought. Although these habits might seem harmless, they can end up causing some emotional and physical challenges for those who experience them.
Why does it happen?
Our brains are amazing and complex. Sometimes, when we are stressed, anxious, or even just lost in thoughts, our brains might look for ways to cope or feel better. It’s like these behaviors provide a sort of comfort or distraction from whatever bothers us.
Do BFRBs affect your emotions?
Yes, it does. And it has a sneaky way of doing so. Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors will seem harmless at first, but one might feel embarrassed or self-conscious about the physical effects of the behavior. In addition, if we end up with bald spots, scars, or damaged nails, it could make us feel down or anxious in social situations. Also, if you’re doing something over and over again, it might start to feel like you don’t have control over yourself. That lack of control can lead to frustration, sadness, or even shame.
What are the types of Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors?
Trichotillomania (Hair Pulling Disorder):
Trichotillomania is that urge to pull your hair when you’re having deep thoughts. But for some folks, it goes a step further. They might repeatedly pull out hair from their scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or other body parts. This can create noticeable bald spots and, as you can imagine, make them feel self-conscious or frustrated.
Dermatillomania (Skin Picking Disorder):
People with dermatillomania might feel that urge to pick at their skin a lot. This can lead to redness, scarring, and even infections (if it gets too intense). Just like with hair pulling, the physical effects can mess with someone’s emotions and self-esteem.
Onychophagia (Nail Biting):
Do you know that habit of biting your nails when you’re anxious or waiting for something? For some people, it’s not just a habit; it is a full-blown behavior. They might bite their nails so much that they damage the nail bed and the skin around it.
Other types of BFRBs include:
Trichophagia (Hair Eating): Swallowing pulled-out hair can lead to serious medical complications.
Rhizophagia (Nail Eating): Eating bitten-off nails can also have potential health risks.
Morsicatio Buccarum (Cheek Biting): Biting the inside of the cheeks, lips, or even the tongue, can result in tissue damage.
Cheek Chewing or Gum Chewing Behaviors: Repetitive chewing on the cheeks, lips, or gum can also damage tissues.
Eating or Swallowing Inedible Objects (Pica): Eating non-food materials such as paper, linen, or hair, can have negative health effects.
Picking or Grooming Scabs: Repeatedly picking at scabs, wounds, or areas of skin, which might be hindering healing.
Excoriation Disorder (Skin Picking Disorder): A more general term for repetitive skin picking, focusing on creating wounds or damaging the skin.
Each of these has its unique characteristics, but what they have in common is that they involve repetitive behaviors that might start small, but can grow into something more intense.
How to treat this BFRBs
Here are some ways to address these behaviors:
Consider Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
This is a common and effective approach. It helps you recognize triggers and develop strategies to manage urges. It also aims to change negative thought patterns associated with the behaviors.
Use Habit Reversal Training (HRT):
HRT teaches people to replace Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors with a competing response that’s incompatible with the behavior. For example, if someone is pulling their hair, they might learn to clench their fist instead.
Leverage mindfulness and relaxation techniques:
Learning mindfulness can help you become more aware of your thoughts, emotions, and urges without judgment. Relaxation techniques can provide healthier alternatives to cope with stress.
Medication:
In some cases, medication might be considered, especially if BFRBs are linked to anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions. However, medication is usually used in combination with therapy.
Consider self-help strategies:
Learning self-monitoring techniques, creating a toolbox of distractions, and keeping a journal can help you take active steps toward managing your behaviors.
Work with professionals:
Consulting mental health therapists or psychologists who specialize in BFRBs is crucial. They can tailor treatment plans to your needs.
Build a supportive environment:
Friends, family, and loved ones can play an important role. Creating an understanding and supportive environment can make a big difference in your journey to manage BFRBs.
Featured image: AaronAmat/iStock
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