2023-10-18 18:31:46
01:29 PM
Onychophagia is the term given to the habit of nail biting. It can be a mania or have an emotional and behavioral cause. Nail biting might be a symptom of anxiety and according to the American Psychiatric Association it is more associated with obsessive-compulsive disorder.
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However, it might also be due to genetic predisposition or simply a guilty taste. This habit can be embarrassing and might cause problems for your nails.
For example, this behavior can lead to nail malformations that appear smaller, shorter, with a rough surface and are thinner; inflammation of the skin surrounding the nail, changes in color with darker pigmentation and areas of bleeding and infection by bacteria, fungi or viruses.
In less common cases, osteomyelitis of the distal phalanx may occur, that is, an infection in the bone. Also, the resorption of the tooth root due to the force of biting and damage to the gums.
This is why the habit of biting your nails must be left behind, but this requires patience, discipline and some effective strategies.
Here are seven recommendations to overcome it.
1. Understand the origin: the first step to changing any habit is to understand why we do it. Reflect on the situations or emotions that trigger this behavior. It might be stress, anxiety or boredom. Identifying these triggers will help you find healthier alternatives.
2. Keep your nails manicured: Having clean and well-maintained nails can be an additional motivation to stop biting them. Trimming them regularly and keeping them clean and polished gives you a more presentable appearance, which in turn will make you think twice before biting into them.
3. Apply nail polish or treatments: Applying nail polish or specific treatments to strengthen your nails can be an effective way to discourage nail biting. Bitter flavors or unpleasant textures can act as constant reminders of your goal to kick the habit.
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4. Keeping your hands busy: Restlessness is one of the main reasons why people bite their nails. Keep your hands busy with objects such as pens, anti-stress toys or even sugarless gum. This will take your attention away from your nails and help you avoid temptation.
5. Practice relaxation techniques: If stress is one of the triggers for biting your nails, learning relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or yoga can be extremely beneficial. These practices will help you manage stress in a healthier way and reduce the need to resort to this destructive habit.
6. Set goals and rewards: Set realistic goals to stop nail biting and celebrate your achievements, even the small ones. Rewarding yourself when you reach important milestones can be a powerful motivation to stay the course.
7. Seek support: You are not alone on this path. Seek support from friends, family, or even online groups of people going through the same thing. Sharing your challenges and achievements with others can provide you with a valuable support network.
With this guide you can begin to make this bad habit aware. But remember that it requires patience and commitment.
*This article was written with the support of Artificial Intelligence
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