How do I know if this is something I need help for?

Hello-my boyfriend told me today that he thinks I need help for my picking. I pick at my thumbs only-I do it constantly. If I am not using my hand to do something I am almost definately picking my thumbs. They are always red, inflammed, often bleed-but the thing is, I don't really know if its a problem or just a little tick I have. I realize that many people have much more severe problems than picking at thumbs, but I just don't know what to do. I have tried putting band-aids on them, but obviously jsut pull them off, tried new skin, but just pick that off. I notice when I am in a situation that makes me uncomfortable I pick twice as much as usual. So my question is, do I just deal with it, or do I seek help?