‘There are several coping techniques, but when picking or scratching an area has become a habit it can be difficult to break. One method I have heard of is to put a piece of tape or bandaid in the spot to remind you to stop and find a different coping strategy. I think it is important to start by recognizing your triggers. Once you recognize them it is easier to avoid them or find specific coping skills like journaling, or working on a hobby or exercise or another coping form, I have a problem with self-harm. I know that it is based on emotional distress because I can not express my emotions, when I feel the urge, I either write what I am feeling, or record what I am feeling.. I hope you can find some relief.

Hi Halleys!

I was just wondering if you have told a parent, or doctor or therapist about this? Because I am pretty sure that is a form of OCD. When a person picks, it helps distract from anxious or stressful thoughts. It's okay once in awhile, but if it happens a lot, then I would encourage you to talk to a psychiatrist. They have medications out there, they are called SSRIs, and they are very good at stopping OCD. Also will help lessen the anxiety, depression, etc. Maybe look into it, worth a try. Best of luck!!!

Hello Halley. Welcome to DS.

Gentle empathy on the scratching compulsion. My own scratching compulsion is so severe I've had to tape oven mitts to my hands while I sleep. Gloves won't work because I can scratch holes into gloves as easily as I can scratch holes in my epidermis.

I cope by accepting my OCD as a permanent condition and plying therapy tools when the beast rears its ugly head. Kinda like a diabetic will test their blood sugar when they feel dizzy. I do not believe ^it^ will ever be jolly good fun, but the condition can be managed within a rich, full life.

But that is me and every case is unique. . .

Be gentle with yourself and patient with the process, Halley. Welcome aboard. Hope you find stabilizing companionship here.

Try a little dab of brown sugar on the spot when it itches. Or, try rubbing banana peel on the spot when it itches.

I use the word "itches" for the sensation - change it to whatever fits how it feels when you have the urge to touch that area.

By adding something to do when it happens, you change the "pattern of thought and action and behavior" naturally.

I have a similar scar on my head that took a long, long time to heal from the repeated breaking of the skin in that area.

Sometimes, our description of what's happening can relate to a condition and sometimes, it's a recurring infection of the tissue (which is what I was finally diagnosed with, when it was active and the doctor was able to get a swab).

One of the changes I learned in CBT treatment plan (cognitive behavior therapy) was to use a positive goal plan to help change the pattern of behavior with managing the pattern of touching certain places in moments of distress.

Instead of using "stop", I used "go". I go to that spot and move to "push" rather than "rub". That change in pressure helped me to remember to move away from the spot.

Best wishes in finding your healthy way through this.

Keep a private journal and use a stick figure to see how, when, where, and what's happening when you want to put your hand there.

Welcome to anxiety board at DS.

Thank you so much for your guys advice and experiences. I've looked into it more and and techniques I could use to stop or get better.
I am planning on going to therapy once school starts up again.
Stopping is so hard but I am reminding myself that is all part of the process and to not give up.
I wish wall well :)