Living with Dermatillomania. How to live with Dermatillomania?
Can you be happy living with Dermatillomania? What do you have to do to be happy with Dermatillomania? Living with Dermatillomania can be difficult, but you have to fight to try to be happy. Have a look at things that other people have done to be happy with Dermatillomania
Living with Dermatillomania
Dermatillomania, also known as excoriation disorder or skin picking disorder, is a condition characterized by the repetitive picking, scratching, or picking of the skin. It can be a challenging disorder to live with, but with proper understanding, support, and coping strategies, it is possible to manage and improve the quality of life.
1. Seek Professional Help
If you suspect you have dermatillomania, it is crucial to seek professional help. Consult a mental health professional, such as a therapist or psychiatrist, who specializes in treating obsessive-compulsive disorders. They can provide an accurate diagnosis, develop a personalized treatment plan, and offer guidance throughout your journey.
2. Educate Yourself
Take the time to educate yourself about dermatillomania. Understanding the disorder, its causes, triggers, and potential treatments can help you gain insight into your own behaviors. Knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions and seek appropriate support.
3. Build a Support Network
Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, or support groups who understand your condition. Sharing your experiences, challenges, and successes with others who can relate can provide a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation.
4. Develop Coping Strategies
Work with your mental health professional to develop effective coping strategies. These may include identifying triggers, finding alternative behaviors to replace skin picking, practicing relaxation techniques, or using distraction techniques when the urge to pick arises.
5. Practice Self-Care
Engage in self-care activities that promote overall well-being. This can include maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, proper nutrition, and sufficient sleep. Taking care of your physical and mental health can help reduce stress levels and improve your ability to manage dermatillomania.
6. Create a Skin Care Routine
Establishing a consistent skin care routine can help minimize the damage caused by picking. Use gentle products, keep your skin moisturized, and avoid harsh chemicals that may irritate your skin. Regularly consult with a dermatologist to address any skin concerns.
7. Reduce Triggers
Identify and minimize triggers that may lead to skin picking episodes. This can involve keeping your nails short, wearing gloves or bandages on areas prone to picking, or modifying your environment to reduce stress and anxiety.
8. Celebrate Progress
Recognize and celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Overcoming dermatillomania is a journey, and setbacks may occur. Be patient with yourself and acknowledge the steps you take towards managing the disorder. Rewarding yourself for achievements can help maintain motivation and positivity.
Remember, living with dermatillomania requires patience, self-compassion, and a commitment to your well-being. With the right support and strategies, it is possible to lead a fulfilling life while managing the challenges posed by this disorder.
Posted Sep 14, 2017 by Linda 4500
Knowing that there are others out there going through the same thing and that you are not alone is the first step to surviving dermatillomania. There are resources and support groups available to help cope with stigmas, mental health symptoms, and explaining to family and others your symptoms.
Don't be too hard on yourself. Relapses happen, bad picking sessions happen. The important thing is to pick up from it, take care of yourself first and foremost, and not to let it define you. Dermatillomania might have won the battle, but it won't win the war.
Posted Oct 14, 2019 by lovetheaardvarks 3660
Posted Oct 14, 2019 by Brenda-Victoria 3600
