How do I stop obsessive skin picking?

[Anonymous]

Its been an issue since I started getting acne. It cleared up many times and always gets bad again. I literally just peeled a scab from a pimple I never should have touched to begin with and now I want to cry. I have been trying to stop but my urge overrides logic and reason. I feel so guilty and hopless. I know its a psychological problem but I don't have enough money for therapy. I have literally told myself starting today I will not touch or pick my face and I cave in less than 24hrs. Ugh I need help. And advice? Something that's free.

[thelowanthem]

Well I think you need to get to the root of the problem. What are you thinking before and when you start doing it? Is it possible it's anxiety related? A lot of the time skin picking is a soothing/calming behaviour in response to anxiety. I've had issues with it myself.
Try being conscious of what you're thinking at the time and maybe that will reveal what the real problem is that is causing you do it.
Then, maybe try other behaviours when you start feeling the urge. Try yoga for relaxation, deep breathing exercises, make yourself a cup of tea, paint your nails to keep your hands occupied, read a book, etc.

[thelowanthem]

But honestly your best bet would be to talk to someone professionally especially if there are underlying issues there.

[Asker]

I did do yoga today and I worked out but then I came home and looked in the mirror and saw a pimple that scabbed over and it pissed me off because it felt like a little needle poking me when I touched it. I think that's what happens. I get cystic acne a week before my period and its extremely painful and I just want the pain to stop. And when I I pick and pop I feel relieved in the moment and then all of the sudden guilt comes in when I do it for no reason. I make up reason why its okay and the reasons are excuses that make no sense. I have an anxiety disorder.

[thelowanthem]

Okay so it sounds like you know at least partly why you're doing it. Can you ask your parents to help you pay to see someone or supplement the cost?

[Anonymous]

You might need to see a psychologist for that.