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Buffyfan , 25 Aug 2010

I suffer from scalp picking....does anyone have the same problem?

Hi I'm new here and I pick my scalp until it bleeds, scabs over, then pick the scabs. I pick all the time. I have obsessive compulsive disorder and my therapist thinks that it might be related to that. I have picked for years. I like to pick and look at the scabs once they are off my scalp. I don't know what causes me to pick at my scalp, but I do. I try to stop, but always go back to picking. I love to touch the scabs and really dig under the skin of my scalp. I thought I was the only person that did this. I can't believe that there are others like me. It makes me feel less alone. I am only 14 years old. Does anyone have any suggestions or similar experiences? Please tell me if you do. We all share a common bond, I wish everyone good luck with their skin picking :)
3 Answers
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Alex_M
August 25, 2010
I've been doing the same thing since before I was 14. I have also been diagnosed with depression, OCD, and generalized anxiety disorder. So, for me it's not abnormal. I find that the best "cure" for scalp picking is to use an anti-dandruff shampoo. It "smoothes" out your scalp so you have fewer "bumps" to pick at.
Buffyfan
August 25, 2010
Thank you, I will definitely try that :). Dealing with my OCD has been really hard. I have morbid obsessions. They range from extreme acts of violence to perverse sexual thoughts and many, many more. Do you have similar thoughts? Also I am currently seeing a hypnotherapist (along with my psychiatrist) to try and "cure" my scalp picking. I have only been seeing him for about a week, but maybe that might be something that could help you with your scalp picking. Thank you so much for writing to me. I don't feel so alone knowing that there are others like me, not only in the scalp picking aspect, but with the OCD as well.
Gigismom
September 27, 2010
My 16 year old daughter has this issue also. Very severe scalp picking to the point where she has no hair and deep wounds. The more I research this condition the more I realize you are not alone. I am still looking for a treatment that works, but it sounds like you are doing the right thing in seeking out therapeutic advice. I was on another forum that said there may be a link to Adderall and Vyvanse and picking. I'm curious, are you taking anything for ADD or AD/HD? I have heard if you put on acrylic nails that it may change the satisfaction level you get when picking and therefore decrease the frequency. ?? Good luck to you:-)

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