Ideas to help with onychotillomania (picking nails)

[Banana2621]

OK so I have only just realised that an issue I have actually has a medical term!

My issue is this. When I get stress, annoyed, anxious, upset etc I pick at my nails. Now I don't mean I bite them, but using my other nails I will systematically destroy my nails on my fingers and at times on my toes :( I have been known to rip the entire nail off my little toe and make it bleed.
My concern is that most of the time I don't even realise I am doing it. Family and friends will point it out and those that know me will try to help me out of whatever "state" I might be in.
Today I have two nails left :( due to a personal issue that has interrupted my work. I am angry, hurt, upset and frustrated and have now trashed my nails too. Does anyone else suffer with this? Does anyone have any tips?
Answers on a postcard please ... or just a post below would be good
Thanks

Poor you, that sounds miserable — I'm a hair twiddler when I'm stressed and I can get bits really matted before I even know I'm doing it.

When they're a bit better, could having them painted help (if you're allowed that at work)? The flash of colour might make you notice what you're doing faster.

If you do it in bed/when you're at home watching television or similar, I'd suggest smothering your hands with hand cream and wearing cotton gloves. It'll make it harder to pick (or fiddle with my hair in my case!), and you'll have lovely soft hands.

And an unMumsnetty (((hug))) and . I hope your situation gets a bit better soon.