There is an ongoing debate about what actually constitutes an addiction and which behaviors deserve the status of a full-fledged disorder. For instance, overeating can be harmful, but is it an addiction? And what about video gaming, gambling or shopping? Or can you be addicted to texting? As the pros continue to look at the science behind these behaviors, you may be surprised to hear which bad habit is getting an upgrade to the title of official disorder: Nail biting.
The American Psychiatric Association – the organization that publishes the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) – is getting ready to move nail biting from its current "not otherwise classified" status to that of an obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
OCD is most commonly characterized by unreasonable thoughts and fears (obsessions) that lead the sufferer to complete repetitive behaviors (compulsions), and nail biting is not something we normally associate with it. However experts have now realized that extreme cases of nail biting fit into this category. It goes along with other extreme behaviors like hair pulling or skin picking.
Your penchant for chewing on your nails or cuticles when nervous or bored isn’t going to earn you a clinical diagnosis (although it’s still frowned on by moms and manicurists everywhere), but this behavior, when taken to extremes, requires professional help.
Behavioral Addiction Help at The Canyon
If you or someone you love needs treatment for a behavioral addiction or mental health issue, call The Canyon at the toll-free number on our homepage. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.
