Scratching myself.

[wheresmyhairytoe]

I've started scratch my arms when anxious, which is a lot of the time right now, kind of in a circular motion.

My arms now have sore bits all over where I've rubbed the skin off. It's quite satisfying but not really a good idea. How do I stop?

I had a serious skin problem last year which was very similar and ended up in a bit of a circle. It's a really hard habit to kick out of so I do feel fo you.
I would recommend the following

• wear long sleeves that make it hard to get to your arms
• cut your nails
• if you feel the urge to scratch moisturise instead
• buy dermacool, it's a menthol lotion that gives a tingly feeling which I found help
• tell someone so they can tell you to stop itching if you do it mindlessly

And try and look into getting help for anxiety to working on that. I know it's hard. Sending you love

I'm the same op sorry that your having a hard time. My occupational therapist taught me to try and rub instead of scratch when I'm anxious and sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't. Depends on my mental state at the time.

Have you spoken with your gp about your anxiety?

Yes I'm on medication for anxiety and depression. Had a rough few weeks which has triggered this.