Exams, Anxiety and Dermatophagia

The month of May brought the most stressful time of the year, the exam season. and along with it brought tension, stress, anxiety and irritability.

Dermatophagia, also known as skin picking disorder, is a compulsive skin-picking behavior that can cause significant damage to the skin. It is most commonly seen in teenagers, and can have a significant impact on their social and emotional well-being. Stress can make dermatophagia worse. When teenagers are stressed and overwhelmed, these feelings can trigger the urge to pick at their skin.

The same thing happened to me this exam season (so glad it's over!!) I recognized the pressure of the exams was taking a toll on me when I started feeling dizzy during the day, had frequent nightmares, and of course, had cracked and peeling skin on my fingers and noticeably more instances of finger biting.

There are a number of reasons why exam stress can make dermatophagia worse. First, stress can lead to changes in brain chemistry. These changes can make it more difficult to control impulsive behaviors, such as skin picking. Second, stress can lead to physical changes in the body. These changes can make the skin more sensitive and more likely to be picked at. Third, stress can lead to changes in behavior. Teenagers who are stressed may be more likely to engage in activities that they know are harmful to them, and as we know for some of us, once such activity is skin picking.

Here are a few techniques I used to help me handle the stress:

• Take frequent breaks to calm your mind

• Get a fidget toy to stop finger biting

• Paint your nails so you don't bite them

• Get a stress ball

• SLEEP MORE (if you can)

• Use a cuticle oil to help moisturize dry fingers and prevent biting

• Take a deep breath to remind yourself that your grades don't define you

Dermatophagia is a serious mental disorder. Get help if you need it. I know exam season can be really stressful, but it will be over soon, and then we have a nice long summer break to look forward to!