Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors Treatment Options Explained

Understand the most effective treatment approaches for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors, from therapy to lifestyle.

Dermatillomania, Skin Picking, Onychophagia, Nail Biting, Skin Excoriation, BFRB

How to Manage and Treat BFRBs

Treatment recommendations for BFRBs include cognitive behavioral therapy , medication , and select supplements—most notably N-acetylcysteine, an amino acid. While for some, these options are highly effective, overall, they have a long-term success rate of less than 20 percent.

However, a precision medicine initiative recently launched by The TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors is the largest effort yet to understand the neurobiology of BFRBs and find more effective treatments.

Find a therapist who specializes in body-focused repetitive behaviors.

CBT has been shown to help individuals with BFRBs identify triggers that cause picking or pulling. A specific form of behavioral therapy known as Habit Reversal Training may also be highly effective for recognizing behavior patterns and managing the negative emotions associated with BFRBs.

Explore More About Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors

For a comprehensive understanding of body-focused repetitive behaviors, read our complete guide:

Complete Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors Guide

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