OCD skin picking and compulsive skin picking have to be examined closely to distinguish the difference in the two. When someone suffers from OCD skin picking it is generally a symptom of another larger issue. Many times those with OCD picking suffer from psychological issues, such as trauma or abuse. Those that suffer from OCD picking know it is wrong and hide it in shame. They do not want the exposure and attention from the scars and scabs.

Many times those that suffer from OCD skin picking use it as a way to block out outside pain, by self inflecting pain on themselves. This is a way that one can control the amount of pain being endured, rather than experiencing the pain caused by an outside source. The outside source may be real or it may be imagined by someone with OCD picking. There are many chemical imbalances in the brain that can cause hallucinations and if left undiagnosed, can cause real problems.

Many times those with OCD picking only perform the actions when they are faced with stressful situations or get upset or agitated. This is their way to deal with the situation, rather than face the reality of the issue, or to aid themselves in coping with the issue. Many are unaware that they begin picking during distress. Again this allows the person suffering with OCD picking to feel they are in control of the situation, when they are really avoiding it and manifesting self inflicted pain.

Those that suffer from picking are aware they are doing it and are aware they are causing themselves pain. Compulsive skin pickers find comfort and pleasure in causing themselves pain. This is an act of emotional release when they get overwhelmed with emotions and feelings. People that have compulsive skin picking not only know it is wrong, but they do not attempt to hide it from others.

Regardless of which skin mutilation disorder one suffers from, both are an emotional outlet. Both OCD pickers and compulsive pickers each have their triggers, much like an addict. There are certain emotions or actions that cause them to begin the picking process.

There are many different areas on the body that skin pickers can self mutilate. Many hide their picking areas, where those with compulsive picking are more apt to do it in obvious places on their body. The face, arms and scalp are all common grounds for picking and mutilation.

There are various treatments available to attempt to overcome skin picking disorders. Some are aimed at the psychological makeup of an individual and some are treated with anti-depressant medicines. While compulsive and OCD skin picking are very similar in nature, including the roots of the two disorders, there are characteristics that distinguish difference between the two.

Discover more information on OCD skin picking which holds the truth on how to overcome skin picking.

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