As far back as I can remember I've been biting my nails. And as far back as I can remember I've been doing it excessively, beyond where they should be bit. Not everyone brings it up with me, but I can assume that it must be a pretty strong turn off to anyone who takes care of their nails, and that I must look pretty stupid with a finger always in my mouth, cocked at some odd angle as I try to get that bit of nail I've singled out off my finger.
I've made efforts to stop in the past, and I know that on at least one occasion, although Im sure there have been multiple, my nails have grown back enough for me to be happy with them. But theres always something that makes me start back up after seeing that bit of white nail that everyone in my situation seeks so desperately.
Sometimes, after theyve grown out some, I will give in and allow myself to bite down on my newfound petruding fingernails, without breaking the nail. Just enough to exert pressure. But this always seems to lead to the actual nail biting, and I'll find myself in the same situation two months down the road, wondering what went wrong.
Usually while Im in that phase, I also subject my nails to picking, or anything that results in that release of tension. I believe this has also lead to a form of subconcious trich, as I have had plenty of problems with my hair lately, and I am always playing with it. I never pay attention to the process of biting my nails although I am definitely aware of it happening, and I believe that this lack of attention to the actual process is where the problem with my hair lies.
I have read that nailbiting, trich, and skin picking are all associated together, based off of the release feeling that compulsive abusers of the feeling feel from it, and that many people who have one of these problems also has another. I was wondering if anyone has any tips for self control, and bringing it into the concious thought process to overcome my subconcious urges. I will start reading something, or watching something suspensful, and before I know it, there goes my finger in my mouth, or my fingers to my scalp. Anyone have any simular experiences or even better any success stories out there of overcoming this release feeling?