OT -- Help for OCD type symptoms in my son!

[tnahid]

This is off topic, but I thought someone might have some knowledge or experience with this issue.

My oldest son bites the skin around his fingernails when he gets nervous or anxious, usually in group settings or when he is away from us. I just read about this tonight online and it is called dermatophagia. It is a type of obsessive compulsive issue. I really hate it because I am afraid that his fingers may get infected. He never does this while he is at home working on his lessons or at home PERIOD, it's just when we are out or when he is learning something new somewhere or something like that.

My husband also has an issue of biting the hairs on his arm while he is working (desk job). He is a mechanical engineer. These two are both "sister" disorders, the article said, of OCD type issues.

So, does anyone know how I can help him overcome this tendency, and my husband too? Do any of your children have these habits? Any supplements or any treatments that are helpful?

Here's is an article about it:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dermatophagia

[Heidi in AK]

I don't know, but my MIL does this. I will be praying. I'm not really good with disorders, but maybe prayer to reveal an anxious spirit and deal with it might be in order? Please take that with a grain of salt and a lot of discernment, Tina! I'll be praying!!!

[MomtoJGJE]

Hmm... what if you bought/made him something to chew on? Like maybe the hose from an oxygen tank? Then while he's working or thinking he can hold it up and chew on it...

The biggest thing about OCD is that they feel they MUST do the compulsion or something will happen. So (over time) you teach them how to overcome that. Basically to say (just taking a 'common' OCD compulsion), "so what? If I don't check the oven again the house will burn down. It's just stuff. So what?"

Now, that is way easier said than done, and you have to first figure out the compulsion, then figure out the obsession behind the compulsion.

As far as 'just' anxiety goes, I have no idea... still working on that one That one is harder for me to deal with and figure out.

[flackattack]

Tnahid... I just pm'd you with some thoughts.

[blessedmom]

My dd puts things in her mouth often. After swallowing a quarter this summer, we were at the doctor. We talked a little about dd who tends on the anxious side at times. She suggested having her chew gum to prevent her putting other things in her mouth.

[4Hispraise]

We have been through similar issues. GOD is able!! I am going to pm you.