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Body-focused repetitive behaviors, include a range of repetitive actions or movements that an individual performs, frequently without a clear purpose.
Body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) include a range of repetitive actions or movements that an individual performs, frequently without a clear purpose. These behaviors become a notable aspect of various mental health disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and certain tic disorders.
In the context of OCD, body-repetitive behaviors manifest as compulsions, which are ritualistic actions performed in response to obsessive thoughts. These behaviors aim to alleviate anxiety or prevent a feared event, even though they may not be connected logically to the feared outcome. Examples include excessive hand washing, checking, or counting rituals. The repetitive nature of these behaviors provides temporary relief but perpetuates the cycle of obsession and compulsion.
Tic disorders, on the other hand, involve involuntary, sudden, and rapid movements or vocalizations known as tics. While not all tics fall into the category of body-repetitive behaviors, certain complex motor tics, involving repeated movements of specific body parts, can be considered as such. These behaviors often begin in childhood and vary in severity, with some individuals able to suppress tics temporarily, leading to heightened tension and subsequent release when the tic is finally expressed. Despite their temporary soothing effects, individuals engaging in BFRBs frequently grapple with shame, guilt, and a sense of loss of control.
Some of the most common BFRBs include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a highly effective and evidence-based approach for treating Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs). At Light On Anxiety, our specialized therapists are trained in using CBT techniques tailored specifically for BFRBs such as trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder), dermatillomania (skin-picking disorder), and onychophagia (nail-biting).
Through CBT, clients learn to:
Techniques such as habit reversal training (HRT) and stimulus control help clients gain awareness of their BFRBs and develop healthier responses. With compassionate support and guidance, our therapists empower clients to regain control over their behaviors, improve their self-esteem, and lead fulfilling lives free from the constraints of BFRBs.
Medication can be a helpful adjunct to therapy in the treatment of Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs), particularly for individuals with severe symptoms or co-occurring conditions such as anxiety or depression. At Light On Anxiety, our team of psychiatric providers works closely with clients to assess their unique needs and develop personalized medication regimens.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are commonly prescribed to reduce anxiety and mood symptoms associated with BFRBs. Additionally, N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has shown promise in some studies for reducing hair-pulling and skin-picking behaviors.
Our approach to medication management prioritizes safety, efficacy, and collaboration with clients to ensure they receive the most appropriate treatment for their symptoms.
Our approach involves a careful integration of CBT and medication, depending on patient preferences and clinical needs, to address both the biological and psychological aspects of Body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs).
Your Unique Path to Freedom From Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs)
Our goal is to create a treatment plan that aligns with your needs and preferences, recognizing that each individual’s journey is unique.
The symptoms of BFRBs include various behaviors, each with its own unique characteristics:
Body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs), encompassing actions like hair-pulling, skin-picking, or nail-biting, have multifaceted causes involving genetic, neurological, environmental, and psychological factors. Genetic predisposition plays a role, particularly when there is a family history of these behaviors. Neurological differences, especially in areas related to impulse control and emotional regulation, may contribute to the development of BFRBs. Stress, anxiety, or trauma can act as triggers, as individuals may engage in these behaviors as coping mechanisms. Learned behavior, perfectionism, sensory stimulation, and body image issues further contribute to the complexity of BFRBs.
Some BFRB examples include: hair-pulling, skin-picking, nail-biting, cheek or lip biting, thumb-sucking, knuckle-cracking, skin chewing, etc.
Triggers for body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) can vary among individuals and are often linked to emotional states or situations. Stress, anxiety, boredom, or feelings of tension are common triggers that prompt individuals to engage in repetitive actions like hair-pulling, skin-picking, or nail-biting. Emotional distress or even positive emotions may lead to the activation of these behaviors, as they may serve as a coping mechanism or a way to regulate emotions.
At Light On Anxiety, we understand that mental health is a complex interplay of biological and psychological factors. That's why we offer CBT therapy services, medication management and neuropsychological testing solutions within one seamless organization. No more bouncing around the healthcare system, dealing with fragmentation, wait-lists, and lack of care coordination. Our goal is to provide a seamless experience so you can get back to living your best life, which is what we all deserve.
