What Are Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs)?
Body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) are more than just habits. They are conditions where a person repeatedly damages their body through actions such as hair pulling, skin picking, or nail biting. These behaviors often feel automatic, and many people struggle to stop even when they want to.
Examples of BFRBs
Some of the most common BFRBs include:
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Hair pulling (trichotillomania)
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Skin picking (excoriation disorder)
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Nail biting
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Lip biting
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Cheek biting
These behaviors often begin as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, or boredom.
What BFRBs Are Not
It is important to understand what BFRBs are not:
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They are not a form of self-harm.
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They are not about vanity or attention.
Instead, these behaviors are learned coping strategies that become hard to break over time. Many people feel shame and hide their BFRBs, but you are not broken for experiencing them.
Why Do People Struggle With BFRBs?
BFRBs are mental health conditions, not personality flaws. The brain learns these behaviors as a response to stress or tension. Over time, they can become automatic, similar to a reflex. This is why stopping them often feels impossible without help.
Treatment Options for BFRBs
The good news is that BFRBs are treatable. Therapies such as:
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) — helps change negative thought patterns.
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Habit Reversal Training (HRT) — teaches awareness and replacement strategies.
These approaches can reduce shame, increase awareness, and build healthier coping skills.
Living With BFRBs
Living with body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) can feel lonely, but you are not alone. Many people experience them, and recovery is possible with the right support. Therapy can help you take small, steady steps toward change.
If you are struggling with BFRBs, therapy can help. At Gravois Counseling, we specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, and related conditions. Learn more about therapy for OCD and anxiety.
For more resources, visit the TLC Foundation for BFRBs.