Online Test

Find out the severity of your symptoms with this free online test

pam2509 , 22 Jan 2014

Sister of a sufferer

Hello, I am wondering if anyone has any tips on what to say/do to help my sister who is a sufferer. I feel helpless sometimes and dont know what to say to get her to stop and end up just smacking her hand out of the way which is no help at all as I know all she does is wait until I go and then carries on! She has suffered for over 15 years and some days are worse than others but I would like some ideas to be able to give to her to help her cope with it. Thanks in advance....
2 Answers
Nausious
January 22, 2014
Hello! I am suffering from dermatillomania. The most important thing is to realize and admit you have the problem. You should let her know that this isn't just a bad habit, it's a real deal. The rest is pretty much up to him/her. You can't help her more than that, because he/she has to realize what is causing her/him to pick. For myself it's stress. I've also heard that these can also cause dermatillomania: traumas, perfectionism, emotional problems, some medications or boredom. I hope the best for you and your sister/brother. Feel free to contact me at alvar@hotmail.fi :)
ri4821
July 24, 2014
Tell her you love her. Find out if she wants to change and get help, and if so offer to help her find the appropriate resources (ie a good psychologist) and just listen if she needs to talk. It says a lot already that you've reached out for help. You obviously care a lot, and I wish you both the best!

Start your journey with SkinPick

Take control of your life and find freedom from skin picking through professional therapy and evidence-based behavioral techniques.

Start Now