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My daughter has developed a habit of twisting her hair. She pulls, twists, and runs her fingers through it, making a distinct sound as it moves between her fingers and nails. I’ve observed her doing this since she was very little; even before she had hair, she’d do it to mine while I carried her.
This behavior runs in the family. I’ve been doing it for as long as I can remember, particularly when I’m feeling stressed. My parents always urged me to stop, warning that it could affect my social life. I remember my grandmother saying I’d struggle to find a partner if I didn’t quit playing with my hair.
I’ve caught myself engaging in this behavior during intimate moments or while having lunch with friends when my mind is preoccupied. There have been instances where I was so absorbed in twisting my hair that my arm fell asleep from the awkward position.
It’s a habit I doubt I’ll ever break. It provides me comfort, and often I’m not even aware that I’m doing it.
Since the onset of the pandemic last March, my daughter has been twisting her hair more frequently, especially first thing in the morning, during meals, and even while doing her homework. I’ve seen her do it while driving me to appointments as well.
I’ve also noticed that my partner has started biting his nails—a behavior he never exhibited when we first began dating. The stress of running his own business during such uncertain times has clearly taken a toll on him.
A recent survey found that 67.2% of individuals with body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) have experienced an increase in these habits since the COVID-19 pandemic began. The Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology notes that, while the study had limitations, it indicates that the psychological impacts of the pandemic are indeed manifesting. Participants reported heightened distress and functional impairment related to skin and hair BFRBs.
About 1 in 20 people struggle with BFRBs. While the precise causes are still unclear, experts believe that genetics and personality traits play significant roles. Tension and anxiety can trigger the onset of these habits or exacerbate existing ones.
Given the various changes we’ve faced over the past year, it’s understandable that these behaviors might intensify. The pandemic has been a source of immense stress, making many feel a loss of control. For someone like me, who already tends to pull on their hair, the chaos of COVID-19 has made my habit more pronounced—it’s a form of control amidst uncertainty.
While many of us have our occasional quirks, it becomes concerning when you feel helpless against habits like skin picking, hair pulling, or nail biting. The pandemic may have either triggered new BFRBs or worsened those already in existence. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s essential to take action.
Healthline suggests that if your habits result in noticeable damage, like raw nails or skin, it’s wise to seek treatment. There are various options available, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, medications like Prozac or Zoloft, and natural remedies such as acupuncture or massage. You may also find that identifying your triggers can help you manage these behaviors better. For example, if your picking is linked to a skin ailment like acne, consulting a dermatologist might be beneficial.
Distraction techniques, such as using fidget toys or stress balls, can provide relief as well. Additionally, reaching out to friends or family can create a support system, holding you accountable and motivating you to curb these habits.
If you’re grappling with these challenges, it’s crucial to explore what works for you. There isn’t a universal solution; it’s about finding effective strategies that help alleviate anxiety without compromising your skin or self-esteem.
For more tips and insights, check out our related post on etiquette and learn about resources at Healthline for pregnancy and home insemination. If you’re interested in boosting your fertility, visit Make a Mom for expert advice.
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In summary, the pandemic has brought about a noticeable increase in compulsive behaviors such as skin picking, nail biting, and hair twisting. Many individuals, including children and adults, have found themselves resorting to these actions as coping mechanisms amidst the stress and uncertainty of recent times. Recognizing these behaviors and seeking appropriate support is crucial for managing their impact on daily life.
Keyphrase: Compulsive behaviors during the pandemic
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