Eat the nailstechnically known as onychophagy, is a common, but difficult to break, habit that affects people of all ages. Not only can this behavior damage the appearance of your hands, but it also has implications for dental health and may be a sign of underlying stress or anxiety.
There are some reasons behind this habit that hundreds of people have, as well as some practical tips to keep in mind to overcome it.
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Why do we bite our nails?
- Anxiety and Stress: One of the main triggers of onychophagia is anxiety and stress. In moments of nervousness, some people unconsciously resort to behaviors such as nail biting as a way to release tension.
- Boredom: Lack of busyness or boredom often leads to the pursuit of automatic activities, and nail biting can become an unconscious habit to fill that void.
- Perfectionism and Nervousness: Those who tend toward perfectionism may find nail biting an outlet for the restlessness and nerves associated with the constant pursuit of perfection.
- Imitation: In some cases, onychophagy can be learned by imitation, especially in environments where other people nearby also have this habit.
How can we stop biting our nails?
- Identify Triggers: Recognizing the moments and situations that trigger the impulse to bite your nails is the first step in addressing the habit. Ask yourself when and why you tend to do this.
- Keep Nails Short and Manicured: Keeping your nails short and well-groomed can reduce the temptation to bite them. Plus, it may be more enjoyable to stop if your nails look healthy and attractive.
- Replace the Habit: Find an alternative activity to replace your nail-biting habit, such as carrying a small object with you to manipulate when you feel the need to do so.
- Social support: Sharing your goals with friends or family can provide the support needed to stop nail biting. Sometimes external awareness can be an effective reminder.
- Specific Treatments: In severe cases, consider using bitter-tasting nail polishes designed to discourage the habit, or seek help from a mental health professional if the habit is linked to deeper emotional issues.
- Reinforce with Rewards: Set short-term goals and celebrate successes. Reinforcing yourself with rewards can strengthen your determination to stop nail biting.