Have you ever heard of dermatillomania? It is a skin picking disorder that affects thousands of people worldwide. It is a problem often overlooked and stigmatized, but it can have a significant impact on the quality of life of those who suffer from it. The good news is that there are effective treatments, and clinical hypnosis is one of the most promising approaches. If you are a health professional or want to help people facing this challenge, keep reading to discover how hypnosis can be a powerful tool in the treatment of dermatillomania.

Dermatillomania, or skin picking disorder, is characterized by an irresistible urge to pick, scratch, or scrape one’s own skin, causing lesions and wounds. For those who suffer from this disorder, the relationship with their own body can become a daily battle. The sensation of itching or irritation can be intense and difficult to resist, leading to compulsive behaviors that bring temporary relief but also cause shame, guilt, and even physical pain.

However, there is hope for those facing this challenge. Clinical hypnosis has proven to be an effective approach in the treatment of dermatillomania, helping people understand the underlying causes of the disorder and develop strategies to manage their impulses. Hypnosis is a powerful tool for self-awareness and behavior change, and it can be the key to helping those who suffer from dermatillomania regain control of their lives.

What is Skin Picking Disorder?

Skin picking disorder, also known as dermatillomania, is a psychological disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to pick, scratch, or scrape one’s own skin. This condition can lead to the development of lesions and wounds, causing physical and emotional discomfort. People with this disorder can have varying levels of severity, from mild cases to more severe forms that significantly interfere with their quality of life.

But why do some people develop this disorder? Well, there are several factors that can contribute to its onset. Genetic, biological, psychological, and environmental factors may be involved. For example, some people may have a genetic predisposition to the disorder, while others may develop the picking behavior as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, or other intense emotions. Skin problems, such as acne or eczema, can also be triggers for skin picking disorder.

Symptoms of dermatillomania may include:

• Irresistible urge to pick, scratch, or scrape the skin;
• Lesions and wounds on the skin caused by picking;
• Feeling of relief or gratification after picking;
• Excessive concern with real or imagined skin imperfections;
• Failed attempts to reduce or stop the picking behavior.

Many people with dermatillomania also experience feelings of shame, guilt, and isolation. They may try to hide their lesions or avoid social situations due to the shame of their wounds. However, it’s important to remember that skin picking disorder is a treatable condition and help is available.

Dermatillomania: Symptoms and Behaviors

Symptoms of dermatillomania can vary from person to person, but generally include an irresistible urge to pick, scratch, or scrape the skin. This behavior can be triggered by a sensation of itching, irritation, or simply by anxiety and stress. People with dermatillomania may focus on any part of the body, but the most common areas include the face, neck, arms, and hands. Fingernails are often used to pick or scratch, which can lead to lesions and wounds.

Besides physical impulses, dermatillomania can also present behavioral and emotional symptoms. People with this disorder may experience a sense of relief or gratification after picking, even if it is short-lived. They may also develop an excessive concern with real or imagined skin imperfections, leading to a vicious cycle of picking. Often, there are failed attempts to reduce or stop the behavior, resulting in feelings of guilt, shame, and frustration.

Dermatillomania can have a significant impact on the daily lives of affected individuals. The disorder can interfere with social, professional, and personal activities. The lesions and wounds caused by picking can be painful and cause physical discomfort. Additionally, the constant concern with skin appearance can lead to feelings of low self-esteem and social isolation. In some cases, dermatillomania may also be associated with other mental disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorder, or depression.

It’s important to highlight that dermatillomania is a treatable disorder and help is available. The first step in dealing with this disorder is recognizing the symptoms and seeking professional assistance. With appropriate treatment, people with dermatillomania can learn to manage their impulses, reduce the frequency of picking, and improve their quality of life.

Treatment: Clinical Hypnosis and Integrative Approaches

Clinical hypnosis is an effective and promising approach for the treatment of dermatillomania. As a therapeutic tool, hypnosis can help access the subconscious and understand the deep-seated causes of the disorder. Through relaxation and concentration techniques, the patient enters an altered state of consciousness, where therapeutic suggestions can be made to modify thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Clinical hypnosis is a brief and focused form of therapy, aiming to empower the patient and restore their sense of control.

During hypnosis sessions, the patient is guided to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors related to dermatillomania. This process can help identify triggers, understand the function of picking, and develop alternative coping strategies. Hypnosis can also be used to reinforce self-compassion and self-regulation, which are important aspects in managing the disorder.

However, clinical hypnosis is not the only effective approach. The treatment of dermatillomania can benefit from an integrative perspective, combining different techniques and therapies. Approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and compassion-focused therapy can be complementary to clinical hypnosis. These therapies aim to change thought and behavior patterns, accept and manage difficult emotions, and develop self-care skills.

Dermatillomania is a complex disorder that may require a personalized treatment plan. Clinical hypnosis, combined with other integrative approaches, offers a holistic perspective to help patients manage their impulses, reduce the frequency of picking, and improve their quality of life. The treatment aims to restore the patient’s sense of agency and promote a healthy relationship with their own body.

Scientific Hypnosis: A Powerful Tool for Self-Awareness and Behavior Change

Scientific hypnosis is a powerful and effective tool for promoting self-awareness and behavior change. It is a therapeutic method that allows accessing the subconscious and understanding the deep-seated causes of disorders like dermatillomania. During the hypnotic state, the patient experiences intense concentration and focus on the therapeutic suggestion, which allows modifying ingrained thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

Clinical hypnosis is a brief and focused approach, aiming to empower the patient and give them back control over their impulses and behaviors. During the sessions, the patient is guided to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors related to the disorder. This process helps identify triggers, understand the function of picking, and develop alternative coping strategies. Hypnosis can also be used to reinforce self-compassion and self-regulation, which are fundamental for managing dermatillomania.

One of the greatest benefits of scientific hypnosis is its ability to promote self-awareness. By accessing the subconscious, the patient can better understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, identifying patterns and beliefs that contribute to the disorder. This deep understanding allows the patient to develop personalized and effective strategies to manage their impulses and behaviors.

Additionally, scientific hypnosis is a powerful tool for behavior change. The therapeutic suggestions made during the hypnotic state can help the patient develop new, healthier, and more adaptive behaviors and responses. Hypnosis can also be used to reinforce motivation and treatment adherence, increasing the chances of success and long-term recovery.

Scientific hypnosis is a safe and ethical approach that has been increasingly recognized as an effective clinical tool by various health associations. It is a powerful complementary technique that can be integrated with other therapeutic approaches, offering a holistic and comprehensive perspective for the treatment of dermatillomania and other disorders.

Brazilian Society of Hypnosis: Ethics and Professionalism in the Practice of Hypnosis

At the Brazilian Society of Hypnosis, we take ethics and professionalism very seriously. Our mission is to promote hypnosis as a powerful and ethical tool for people’s emotional well-being. We are an ISO 9001 certified institution, ensuring our commitment to quality and continuous improvement. Additionally, our definition of hypnosis is based on scientific guidelines from the American Psychological Association (APA), with adaptations for the Brazilian context.

We believe that hypnosis is a valuable tool for self-awareness and behavior change. However, it is important that it is used responsibly and ethically by qualified professionals. Therefore, we emphasize the importance of proper training and the use of hypnosis within the limits of each health professional’s competencies. Hypnosis can be a powerful complement to other evidence-based practices, enhancing health treatment outcomes.

Our approach is integrated with well-established theories and practices, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and Daniel Kahneman’s “fast and slow” theory. We also adopt Irving Kirsch’s “Open Placebo” concept, recognizing the role of suggestion and expectation in the therapeutic response. This holistic perspective ensures that our methods are aligned with the highest standards of care and effectiveness.

At SBH, we have a strong commitment to transparency and honesty. We are clear about the scientific evidence supporting the use of hypnosis and also about its limitations. We do not promise miraculous results or instant cures. We recognize that hypnosis may not be effective in all cases and that it is only one tool within a broader therapeutic arsenal. Our priority is always the well-being and safety of patients.

Additionally, we emphasize the importance of self-regulation and self-compassion in the practice of hypnosis. We believe that the patient should be empowered and have an active role in their own treatment. Hypnosis can help people develop a healthier and more compassionate relationship with themselves, which is essential for sustainable and lasting recovery.

In summary, at the Brazilian Society of Hypnosis, you will find professionals committed to ethics, science, and patient well-being. Our practice is guided by solid principles and a genuine passion for helping people reach their full emotional potential. If you are a health professional or wish to become one, we invite you to join us on this journey of promoting hypnosis as a powerful and ethical tool for emotional health.

Conclusion: Clinical Hypnosis for Dermatillomania

Dermatillomania is a skin picking disorder that can have a significant impact on the quality of life of affected individuals. Symptoms, such as the irresistible urge to pick the skin, can lead to lesions and cause shame and isolation. However, there is hope for those facing this challenge. Clinical hypnosis has proven to be a promising and effective approach in the treatment of dermatillomania.

Through hypnosis, it is possible to access the subconscious and understand the deep-seated causes of the disorder, allowing the modification of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Clinical hypnosis empowers the patient, giving them back control over their impulses and behaviors. Additionally, scientific hypnosis promotes self-awareness and behavior change, helping people develop personalized and effective strategies to manage their symptoms.

If you are interested in learning scientific hypnosis to apply professionally and help people with dermatillomania, explore the evidence-based hypnosis courses and postgraduate programs offered by the Brazilian Society of Hypnosis: https://www.hipnose.com.br/cursos/

Frequently Asked Questions

Is dermatillomania a psychiatric condition? Are there diagnostic criteria?

Yes, dermatillomania is recognized as a psychiatric disorder and is included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) and the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). Diagnostic criteria include recurrent skin picking resulting in lesions and failed attempts to reduce or stop this behavior.

What is the cause of dermatillomania?

The exact cause of dermatillomania is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Genetic factors may increase a person’s susceptibility, while psychological factors, such as stress, anxiety, or other intense emotions, can trigger or exacerbate the picking behavior.

Can dermatillomania be treated with medication?

While there are no specific medications approved for the treatment of dermatillomania, some medications may be helpful in managing symptoms in some cases. Antidepressants, for example, may help reduce anxiety and the compulsion to pick. However, it is important to note that medications should be prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare professional.

Can hypnotherapy help in the treatment of dermatillomania?

Yes, hypnotherapy is a promising and effective approach for the treatment of dermatillomania. Clinical hypnosis can help access the subconscious and understand the deep-seated causes of the disorder, allowing the modification of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors associated with dermatillomania. Hypnosis can also help manage stress and anxiety, which are often associated with this disorder.

How can I find a qualified hypnotherapist to treat dermatillomania?

It is important to seek a qualified and experienced hypnotherapist in treating behavioral disorders, such as dermatillomania. You can look for professionals with recognized certifications from reputable institutions, such as the Brazilian Society of Hypnosis. Additionally, ensure that the hypnotherapist has an ethical and scientific approach, aligned with the best practices in the field.