Compulsive Skin Picking
Compulsive Skin Picking Causes
The cause of CSP is most likely a combination of genetic and environmental factors; although it is still not known what really causes compulsive skin picking. Doctors believe that faulty brain pattern in reaction to stress and anxiety triggers is an explanation why CSP occurs.
Compulsive Skin Picking Definition
Compulsive Skin Picking or Dermatillomania is an obsessive compulsive disorder characterized by the urge to repetitively pick one's own skin resulting to damage to the skin and skin bleeding; which is often followed by depression or hopelessness when the damage has been done to the skin.
Compulsive Skin Picking Diagnosis
Differential diagnosis is used by a clinician to differentiate the disorder with other disorders having the similar symptoms.
Compulsive Skin Picking Symptoms and Signs
Symptoms include repeated skin picking anywhere in the body most of the time in the face, strong itch or urge that can only be relieved by picking the skin resulting to pleasure and gratification when skin picking. The feeling is then followed by depression after damage on the skin due to intense skin picking. Pickers are aware of the action that they are doing but they are unable to control the urge.
Compulsive Skin Picking Treatment
Cognitive behavioral therapy and habit reversal training with a qualified mental health professional could be helpful in the treatment of Compulsive Skin Picking. Dermatologist can however help them with the skin damages like scars brought about by repetitive picking episodes.