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Doctor refused to help
I went to my doctor to ask for help. I told him I had scarring and was very self conscious and that I have dermotillomania - he said I should just stop and it's my problem.
That was his answer. So not what I needed to hear. I'm in the UK, I guess my GP doesn't agree that it's some kind of Illness. It took a lot of courage to say out loud what I do, and I felt even more embarrassed when he said I should just stop. Just like that.
September 10, 2013
Hi, I posted my story under 'A friend in need.' I live quite a bit away in the US, but that doesn't mean we can't support or help each other. I'm so sorry for your experience with your GP. On top of his ignorance, he was very insensitive. Unfortunately, general practitioners cannot do much about dermatillomania anyway. He SHOULD have however, referred you to other doctors. It's very important to find a therapist and/or a dermatologist you feel comfortable with and can talk to. I myself go to a psychiatrist and psychologist currently. I haven't been to a dermatologist in a long time, but am going to go this week to see what they can tell me about the condition of my skin and what I should (and shouldn't) be doing for it. I'll tell you how it goes! Believe me, I know how much courage it takes to admit the problem and say aloud what it is you actually do, but it's also important. So I would suggest looking for more support on here and where you live. Find a doctor or therapist that is sensitive, trustworthy, and knowledgeable. It may take time, but it will be worth it.
We're in this together; stay strong.
~Bee