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skin picking disorder

Skin Picking Disorder, also known as excoriation disorder or dermatillomania, is a mental health condition characterized by recurrent, compulsive picking at one's skin. This behavior often leads to tissue damage, scarring, and emotional distress.

What Is The Psychological Impact of Skin Picking Disorder?

  • People often feel embarrassed about their inability to control the behavior or the visible damage to their skin.

  • Persistent skin damage and scarring can lead to negative body image and feelings of inadequacy.

  • Many experience frustration over repeated failed attempts to stop picking, leading to a sense of helplessness.

  • ​Picking episodes may occur late at night, leading to sleep deprivation and its associated cognitive and emotional consequences.

  • ​SPD often co-occurs with other conditions, such as:

    • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

    • Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)

    • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) or depression

References

Anderson, S., & Clarke, V. (2019). Disgust, shame and the psychosocial impact of skin picking: Evidence from an online support forum. Journal of health psychology, 24(13), 1773–1784. https://doi.org/10.1177/1359105317700254

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©2024 by Skin's Voice: A Guide To Psychodermatology for Patients & Clinicians.

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