Do you struggle with the compulsion to pick at your skin? If so, you may be dealing with spot picking disorder, a condition that affects a significant number of people. While, for some, it may seem like a harmless habit, spot picking or skin picking can have serious consequences for both your physical and mental health. But there’s hope. Hypnotherapy is an effective treatment option for managing this disorder.
In this article, we will dive into the causes and symptoms of spot picking disorder. We will also discuss the connection between the mind and the skin, shedding light on how hypnotherapy can provide relief. By tapping into the power of the subconscious mind, hypnotherapy helps address the underlying triggers and urges that drive spot picking behaviours. If you would like to find out more about my hypnotherapy sessions in London and online, click here.
What is spot picking disorder?
Spot picking disorder, also known as dermatillomania or excoriation disorder, is a condition characterised by the repetitive and compulsive picking at one’s own skin. This can include picking at acne, scabs, or any other imperfections on the skin. People with spot picking disorder often find it difficult to resist the urge to pick. This may sound like you too. As I’m sure you will attest, incessant picking can lead to skin damage, infections, and even scarring.
Spot picking disorder is classified as an impulse control disorder and can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life. It can lead to feelings of shame, embarrassment, and low self-esteem. Many people with spot picking disorder also experience high levels of anxiety and may engage in the behaviour as a way to cope with stress or emotional distress.
Causes and triggers of spot picking
The exact cause of spot picking disorder is still not fully understood. However, research suggests that it may be a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Some studies have found a genetic component. Research has shown a higher risk of developing the disorder among individuals with a family history of skin picking or other impulse control disorders.
Environmental factors can be relevant. This could be a history of trauma or abuse, or living ins a stressful environment. For many people, picking at their skin may serve as a form of self-soothing or a way to regain control in stressful situations.
Triggers for spot picking disorder can vary from person to person. Stress, anxiety, boredom, and even feelings of perfectionism are common triggers. Additionally, certain environmental factors, such as the presence of mirrors or access to magnifying tools, can increase the likelihood of engaging in the behaviour. I have helped many people reduce skin picking. Often people will engage in a ‘binge’ of picking. You could compare this to binge eating. Picking can come at the end of the day or to relieve stress.
How hypnotherapy works to treat spot picking disorder
As a London hypnotherapist, I can tell you that hypnotherapy is a powerful therapeutic approach. Hypnotherapy addresses the underlying triggers and urges that drive the behaviour. During a hypnotherapy session, as a trained and qualified therapist, I guide people into a relaxed state of heightened suggestibility, known as a trance. Skin picking is a habit that ‘lives’ in et subconscious. Hypnotherapy works with the subconscious to shift the habit.
The subconscious mind is where deeply ingrained beliefs, emotions, and patterns of behaviour reside. By working with the subconscious mind, hypnotherapy can help identify and reframe negative thought patterns and associations that contribute to spot picking.
Hypnotherapy for spot picking disorder often involves a combination of techniques. These can include suggestion therapy, visualisation, and regression to past memories. Suggestion therapy uses positive affirmations and suggestions to reprogramme the subconscious mind and promote healthier habits and coping mechanisms. Visualisation techniques help create positive images of the person engaging in alternative behaviours or responding differently to triggers. Regression therapy can be used to explore any underlying traumas or experiences that may be contributing to the disorder.
Benefits of hypnotherapy for spot picking
Hypnotherapy offers several benefits for spot picking disorder. Firstly, hypnotherapy helps to create a deep state of relaxation. Relaxation reduces stress and anxiety levels, which are often triggers for the behaviour. Hypnotherapy addresses the underlying emotional and psychological factors that drive spot picking. So, it can help people develop healthier coping mechanisms and break free from the cycle of compulsive picking.
Hypnotherapy can improve self-esteem and body image. By working on the subconscious level, people can develop a more positive perception of themselves and their skin. This reduces feelings of shame and embarrassment associated with spot picking.
Book your first hypnotherapy session today
If spot picking is having a negative impact on your physical and mental well-being, consider hypnotherapy. Would you like to break free from the cycle of spot picking and regain control again? over their skin and their lives. Get in touch to book hypnotherapy sessions in London and online.
