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Body-Focused Repetitive Behavior

Seeking help early can prevent further damage and improve overall well-being. One of our mental health professionals can provide tailored strategies and support.

Body-focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) encompass a range of compulsive self-grooming actions that can lead to bodily harm due to their repetitive nature. These behaviors are unlike tics or habits and may result in both physical injury and emotional distress. BFRBs are classified as obsessive-compulsive and related disorders in the DSM-5. Recognizing and understanding BFRBs is crucial for developing effective treatment and support strategies for those affected.

Examples of BFRBs

  • Hair-pulling (Trichotillomania): Pulling hair from the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, pubic area, or other body areas

  • Skin-picking (Excoriation Disorder): Picking at skin, scabs, or blemishes, which can lead to sores, scars, or infections

  • Nail-biting (Onychophagia)

  • Hair-Eating (Trichophagia): Eating pulled hair which may lead to serious complications, such as hairballs in the stomach

  • Lip or Cheek Biting

  • Nose-Picking (Rhinotillexomania)

  • Cuticle Picking or Biting

  • Scab-Picking

Key Features of BFRBs

  • Repetitive, uncontrollable behavior that occurs frequently and may feel difficult or impossible to stop

  • Physical damage that causes visible harm, such as bald spots, scabs, scars, bleeding, or infections

  • Triggered action in response to stress, anxiety, frustration, boredom, or to self-soothe

  • A lack of awareness at times leading to unconscious behaviors during activities such as watching TV, reading, or even when lost in thought

  • Sense of temporary relief or satisfaction when engaging in the behavior despite later feelings of shame or guilt

  • Distress, embarrassment, or avoidance of social situations due to visible damage or fear of judgment

  • Difficulty stopping despite negative consequences, including physical harm or interference with daily life

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Help Starts Here

If these features resonate, it's important to consider seeking support from one of our specialists.

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Treatment Options for BFRBs

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Habit Reversal Training (HRT)

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

  • Mindfulness

When to Seek Help

  • If the behavior causes physical harm, such as infections, scarring, or pain.

  • If it interferes with daily life, work, or relationships.

  • If it leads to significant emotional distress, such as feelings of shame or social withdrawal.

Seek Help Early

Seeking help early can prevent further damage and improve overall well-being. One of our mental health professionals can provide tailored strategies and support.

If you need specialized support, contact our practitioners with experience treating BFRBs.