BFRBS (BODY FOCUSED REPETITIVE BEHAVIORS)

BFRBs (Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors) include actions like skin picking disorder (this has been called excoriation) and hair pulling disorder (this has been called trichotillomania). But, there are many other BFRBs (nail biting, cheek biting…).

We all do some form of repetitive body actions, because it is based on biology, genetics, and even strategies for survival. But some people find that their repetitive behaviors greatly impact their social life, self esteem, and health. And, this can be devastating.

While there is no “cure” for BFRBs entirely, there are very effective behavioral strategies that can help someone gain control of their actions while still helping our body and mind get our needs met.

We first start with the mechanisms by which the BFRB occurs and why. As we gain awareness about this, we can build skills. Some of these skills are: avoiding triggers, comforting our bodies on a regular basis to maintain balance, accepting emotions, calming emotions, learning that we can tolerate discomfort, and living our lives the way WE want to.

Best Practices for treatment include:

CBIT (with the core of Habit Reversal - HRT), CBT, ERP, and ComB (Comprehensive Model for Behavioral Treatment of BFRB’s)

Here is an excellent site for information:

TLC Foundation: https://www.bfrb.org/