Nail Biting, Teeth Clenching, Skin Biting, Cheek Biting! Oh my!

Hi All

I am poking a little fun at myself with the thread title. I'm not mocking BRFB's.

As my thread title suggests, I have issues with a few BRFB's (in descending order): Nail biting, teeth clenching, skin biting, cheek biting, lip biting, scab picking.

I have had these issues my whole life as a result of developing poor stress managment and coping techniques as a child. Yikes, I just realized I was chewing on my cheek as I was typing!

Mindfulness is a big part of my NEW stress coping and managment techniques, as I often do these behaviors without concsious choice. When I notice my BRFB's I try to pay attention that my body is trying to tell me: I'm preoccupied with stressful thoughts, even if they are mostly subconscious.

I have often been so embarassed and ashamed by my fingers, especially my nails. I have, but do so less now, changed my hand movements in public to minimize them in sight. Ugh, I just bite them down to nubs! I often chew/bite the skin around my nails as well. I've been able to stop for periods of time, especially during certain circumstances like camping. It is definetly my go-to BRFB.

I'm new to recognizing these behaviors and associating them with my metal health. This is a wonderful place to find for support!

Anyone else? Anyone want to share anything?

Bee