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Body Picking: Anxiety vs. ADHD Triggers Explained
7 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Body picking, or body-focused repetitive behaviors, is a disorder.
- Anxiety sufferers use it to relieve tension and self-soothe.
- Habit reversal therapy can replace destructive picking behaviors.
Body picking, scientifically termed body-focused repetitive behaviors, is identified as a disorder characterized by compulsive skin picking and hair pulling. These actions can escalate to become significantly problematic for individuals experiencing them.
According to Dr. Tracey Marks, people with anxiety often resort to body picking as a method to reduce tension and achieve self-soothing. In contrast, individuals with ADHD may engage in these behaviors to increase stimulation, as their brains seek sensory input to function optimally.
Overcoming body picking involves first acknowledging the behavior and understanding its underlying causes, as anxiety and boredom can exacerbate it. The recommended approach is "habit reversal," which entails substituting destructive habits with healthier alternatives. Therapies such as habit reversal therapy, group therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy are available options for those seeking to manage this condition.
