Name That Symptom / Question
Published: May 2, 2002
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I have so many problems, like to start, I chew on my nails constantly and I'm trying to let them grow out. My hair is nappy plus I need to lose some pounds.
Signed: So Many Problems - Like Nail Biting, Hair & Weight
Dear So Many Problems - Like Nail Biting, Hair & Weight,
One way to stop biting your nails is to discover what triggers your nail biting in the first place. Common reasons include:
- Old habit - The process has become second in nature and you do it with out thinking
- Stress - Tension is one of the leading reasons people start and continue to bite their nails. Biting becomes an automatic response to stress
- Nervousness - Nail biting becomes a way of relieving stress before speaking before a class or going on a date
- Habit triggered by another activity - Often nail biting can be associated with another activity such as talking on the phone, watching TV or riding in the car.
By isolating why you bite your nails, you can learn to monitor yourself under those conditions and try to consciously avoid biting your nails or substitute another behavior when you feel the urge to bite like squeeze a stress ball. If your willpower is not enough you can try some of the nail polishes designed to help nail biters. These nail polishes are actually foul tasting formulas that will make biting your nail an unpleasant experience. They are sold over the counter and are generally safe. Keeping your hands busy will help when you are on the telephone or other times when your hands are idle. Doodling with a pencil or playing a hand held game might help.
Chewing gum or mints can help reduce the nail biting. If you are already chewing something else you are less likely to chomp on your nails. Keep gum and mints with you at all times and if you feel your hands going to your mouth, put a piece of gum or mint in instead. In order to make you dentist happy, you should probably use sugarless gum and mints.
Keep a pair of nail clippers on your possession wherever you go. If you are tempted to bit off a sharp edge or a long nail, use the clippers instead.
TeenHealthFX is not an expert on hair, but it is our guess that there are many fine salons in your area that would be willing to help.
The best way to maintain a health weight is through eating healthy and regular exercise. By doing these two things you are developing healthy habits that you can carry through your lifetime.
Finally, try not to be so down on yourself. You will find many of your problems have solutions.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Statistics show that giving a teen a credit card does not teach them to be financially responsible or to encourage self-restraint, but actually promotes a “spend now and deal with the consequences later” mindset.
