A BFRB, or Body-Focused Repetitive Behavior, represents a group of related disorders including hair pulling (trichotillomania), skin picking (dermatillomania), and nail-biting (onychophagia). According to The Learning Center for BFRBs, "these behaviors are not habits or tics; rather, they are complex disorders that cause people to repeatedly touch their hair and body in ways that result in physical damage." An estimated 5% of the population has a BFRB, with 1% of the population having trichotillomania specifically.
There are many common misconceptions surrounding BFRBs. They are not a bad habit that can be broken- they can be automatic, conscious, or both. They aren't a form of self-harm, as there isn't the intention to harm. Rather they are used to self soothe and are a form of intense over-grooming. While they may coincide and appear in people along side OCD, anxiety, and depression, they are considered their own group of disorders under the DSM-5.
Not much research has been done regarding BFRBs as they are rarely spoken about due to the shame that comes with these disorders. As of right now, there is no cure. Currently, BFRBs are treated with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Sometimes, psychiatrists prescribe antianxiety medications to help handle stressful triggers. It is unclear what causes BFRBs, though it is linked to heredity, traumatic events, and high amounts of stress. Triggers can include boredom, stress, and any intense emotions.
We want to open the conversation around BFRBs. Many people go untreated due to the shame and mystery surrounding these disorders. We want for people with BFRBs to know they are still worthy. A portion of the proceeds from our BFRB bracelets are donated to The Learning Center for BFRBs to raise awareness and research. For more information, visit bfrb.org.
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