Lurker no more...

I have been visiting this site regularly for probably about 6 months or more. Honestly, I had no idea that there were so many of "us" out there and there was actually medical term for this condition. Reading these boards has brought some sense of comfort as I have felt so alone for many years. My picking started about 20 years ago. It has been like a roller coaster ride where I have good days and absolutely devastating days. This condition has caused me to miss so many amazing events such as weddings, birthdays etc...etc... Additionally, I have almost lost my job several times due to the days that I literally can't leave the house due to immense embarrassment and shame. At 40, I had figured that acne would be a thing of the past, but unfortunately it continues and so do my trance-state bouts of picking at every little imperfection on my face and sometimes other parts of my body. I really hope to one day have a grasp on what the deep-seeded cause is and to finally conquer it. Meditation and yoga have helped, but I still find myself at times destroying my face. Sigh. Let's support one another to pursue brighter days ahead!