Head picking? Anyone else struggle??

[alisando123]

Hi all,

I just wanted to ask, does anyone else struggle with picking their scalp? I always seem to do it and can't seem to stop! It really bugs me because it makes my intrusive thoughts even worse (I'm worried stuff is gonna get in my bloodstream through my scalp picking!) 

Does anyone have any tips on how to stop? Without having to physically restrain myself preferably! 

[Wonderer]

I do this too, but u know what, all my friends and I were chatting one night and we all got into a funny conversation about this, it seems that among my non OCD friends, there’s nothing quite as satisfying lol, however if it’s brothering u then it’s something I’m sure CBT could help with! X

[Tanana]

Yes, I do this too. Always scratching my head. For some reason I find it relaxing. I also find squeezing spots and plucking hairs on my legs relaxing too. I wish i didn't do it but i find it hard to stop. Don't know if it is related to ocd or not.

[alisando123]

Thanks both! It wouldn't bother me if I didn't have ocd. I just worry about stuff getting in my bloodstream, even though it's very rare I pick enough for it to bleed. Most of the time it just gets a bit sore! If it does get sore though I end up doing a compulsion and putting hand sanitiser or something on it to clean it  it stings like crazy !!! Then I worry more that illnesses can get in there! 

I seem to do it more when I'm stressed out or working. I will mention it when i go for cbt if I manage to get some ! 

 

[FoosBoo88]

Yep! Been doing it for years and my hair really suffers for it. My Mum is a skin-picker, too, but more on her arms and legs.

FoosBoo88 x