I think a lot of people with picking disorders have some sort of underlying mental duress or disorders. However, I want to hear from you. Do you know anyone with picking disorders? Why do they have this disorder? Do you pick your skin when you get nervous? Please tell us about that!

Though skin picking often occurs on its own-unconnected to other physical or mental disorders-it is important to identify whether or not skin picking is a symptom of another problem that needs treatment. For example, skin picking could be a symptom of illnesses such as dermatological disorders, autoimmune problems, body dysmorphic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, substance abuse disorders (such as opiate withdrawal), developmental disorders (like autism), and psychosis. Establishing whether skin picking is an independent problem or a symptom of another disorder is an important first step in creating an appropriate treatment plan.