Online Test

Find out the severity of your symptoms with this free online test

Take the test
MysteriousSunshine , 25 Jul 2012

Major Setback :(

I truly don't know why this is happening, but the last few months have been tremendously bad in regards to picking my skin. Just yesterday, I picked an already over-picked pimple and the damage was so severe that I did not to go work today. Honestly, it will be a miracle if I make it at all this week! So frustrated, horrified and saddened by what I have done. Not to mentioned, embarrassed at the fact that I can't leave the house. My husband is supportive, but does not thoroughly know, or understand, this terrible condition. I fear that I may eventually lose him and my employment. Today, I called my doctor, but she is out of the office until tomorrow. At a complete loss and feeling so hopeless right now. :(
5 Answers
Add Comment
ziggy
July 25, 2012
Hi MysteriousSunshine, I'm really sorry to hear about your setback. How long have you been picking for? I'm just recognizing that this is a problem for myself, and am trying to stop, but it's the hardest thing I've ever done.
MysteriousSunshine
July 25, 2012
Hi Ziggy! I am ashamed to admit it, but I've been picking for about 20 years. It has been a roller coaster ride of ups and downs; good weeks and absolutely devastating ones - such as this one! I just want to quit this terrible habit for good! :( How are you coping?
ziggy
July 26, 2012
Hi MysteriousSunshine, Don't be ashamed, I think the fact that you're here looking for help says a lot. I sat down today to do the math, and I think I've been picking for 10-11 years myself. I've only realized it's not normal behaviour recently. I find stress triggers my picking. When I feel overwhelmed, this helps me feel better (until I realize what I've done again). Do you have triggers? I hope you have a better day today. Z.
MysteriousSunshine
July 26, 2012
Hi Ziggy! You are so right. I honestly thought that I was completely alone until I found this website. It makes me feel better knowing that there are similar people out there and that we support each other in this battle. Like you, stress and anxiety only increases my picking urges. One thing that I realized recently is that both severe picking episodes were followed by my period. So, obviously there's a connection. I'm going to try to see my doctor tomorrow to discuss this further with her. Hopefully, she will be able to provide me with a type of medication that will relieve this temporary anxiety. I don't really want to take an kind of prescription drugs, but obviously can't manage this on my own.
ziggy
July 26, 2012
Hope you're feeling better today. That's really interesting I didn't think about a connection with period. I think it helps to know when you're most tempted to pick...hope your doctor appointment goes well. I don't know if all doctors understand the power of it...my doctor suggested going for a walk or writing when I get the urge, I tried to explain the difficulty in pulling yourself out of the situation. I guess you have to experience it to know it's not as simple as walking away from the mirror.

Start your journey with SkinPick

Take control of your life and find freedom from skin picking through professional therapy and evidence-based behavioral techniques.

Start Now