acute nail biting

[imcooltoo]

i am mutilating my fingernails/fingertips. i cant remember a time when i DIDNT bite my nails and after a family tragedy 2 years ago have gotten even worse . its painful and embarressing. do i need a psychiatrist ? -  an MD ?  i'll follow any suggestions you may offer.

sincerely,

all thumbs


This discussion is related to Chronic Nail Biting in Adults.

[Louisajane]

I am also a nail biter, age 47.   Interestingly, when I was pregnant I stopped biting my nails. However, when I was no longer pregnant I began again.   The nails come in stronger during pregnancy and  I think hormones are involved in this somehow.  I also find that if I cut out caffiene the biting can lessen a lot.  
Too bad I love coffee.

I find that if I get a ragged edge on my nail, I am completely unable to combat biting and of course that just makes it worse. When I am in a "biting mood" I start by rubbing my fingers over the tips of my nails to fees for burrs.  If my fingers are properly filed to a very smooth finish, I am OK.  Sometimes I will begin by biting into a nail but usually I pick and work things loose.  Maybe this sounds lile you maybe not.

Anyway, try
no caffeine,
the best nail files you can find and ALWAYS carry them with you.  better to file you nails into stubs than chew them. Chewing escalates whereas filing can simmer you down.
Try a nail strengthener as well.

You could try oil of primrose, I don't know if you are female, but it works a bit for premenstrual stress and seems to help me.

I go up and down on this method but it does work for me.  It takes a few days of no coffee to notice the difference.
Good luck
Louisajane