Frequently asked Qs

• What are body-focused repetitive behaviours (BFRBs)?

  BFRBs are a group of mental health disorders where you repeat compulsive actions that harm the body.

  You might do this to cope with stress, anxiety, or boredom.

  Common BFRBs include:

  • Trichotillomania - hair-pulling
  • Excoriation disorder - skin-picking
  • Nail-biting and nail-picking.
  • Cheek, lip, or tongue biting.
  • Trichophagia - Hair-eating
  • Nose-picking.
  • Mucus fishing syndrome - Removing eye mucus

  These behaviours can cause physical damage, such as bald patches, scarring, or infections.

  You can get more information about the following things on our webpages on:

  • Anxiety disorders
  • Stress - How to cope
• How common are BFRBs?

  BFRB UK & Ireland say that in the UK and Ireland, an estimated 4 million people are affected.

  Despite this, many individuals with BFRBs live in secrecy, with only about 1 in 2 seeking professional help. 

• What causes BFRBs?

  The exact cause is unknown, and research into causes is at an early state.

  But some people have suggested the following could play a part: genetic causes, environmental factors, childhood trauma, or hormones,

  BFRBs are not due to a lack of willpower or poor hygiene. They are complex disorders that require understanding and support. 

• What are the symptoms of BFRBs?

  Repetitive actions that harm the body, such as:

  • Pulling out hair or biting nails.
  • Picking at skin or chewing on lips.
  • Eating hair or removing eye mucus.

  These behaviours can lead to:

  • Physical damage like bald patches, scars, or infections.
  • Emotional distress, including feelings of shame or embarrassment.
  • Avoidance of social situations or activities, due to visible damage. 
• How are BFRBs diagnosed?

  Diagnosis is typically made by a healthcare professional, such as a GP or mental health specialist.

  They will assess:

  • The frequency and duration of the behaviour.
  • The impact on daily life and emotional well-being.
  • Any physical damage caused.

  There are no specific tests for BFRBs. Diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation and discussion.

  BFRBs are a recognised condition in International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). This is a manual used by medical professionals in the UK to diagnose different conditions.

  You can see the ICD-11 listing for BFRBs here.

• How are BFRBs treated?
  • Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT): A type of talking therapy that helps you understand and change your behaviour.
  • Habit reversal training (HRT): A specific CBT technique that teaches alternative behaviours to replace the harmful ones.
  • Support groups: Connecting with others who have similar experiences can provide understanding and encouragement.
  • Medication: Medications may be offered to you to help manage underlying conditions like anxiety or depression.
  • Self-help strategies: Techniques such as mindfulness, stress management, and using fidget tools can be helpful.

  See our webpage on Talking therapies for more information about them. This includes how to get talking therapy, like CBT.

  Here can get more information about Stress - How to cope

• What can I do if I think I have a BFRB?
  • Acknowledge the behaviour: Recognising that you have a BFRB is the first step towards managing it.
  • Seek professional help: Consult your GP or a mental health professional for guidance and support.
  • Join a support group: Connecting with others can provide shared experiences and coping strategies.
  • Practice self-compassion: Understand that BFRBs are complex disorders, and seeking help is a positive step.
  • Educate yourself and others: Learning more about BFRBs can reduce stigma and promote understanding.

  If you or someone you know lives with BFRBs, remember that support is available, and recovery is possible.

• Further reading

  You can find more information on BFRB’s from.

  • BFRB UK & Ireland
  • OCD-UK
  • OCD Action
• Is this information accessible?
  • There is an accessibility function on this webpage called Recite.
  • On the desktop site, click on the icon in the top right-hand corner next to ‘Donate.’
  • On the mobile site, scroll right and click on the ‘Turn on accessibility’ icon.
  • You can watch a short video about Recite here.