Common anxiety habits?

[LaurenAdele]

Hey all- new to the forums so i apologise for blabbing haha

I'm 18 years old and have been suffering hereditary anxiety for about 3 years- on meds now to manage the more severe symptoms which is awesome. However i have found since being more controlled, i think anxiety manifests in other weird ways: can't stop picking pimples or bumps in skin, loose skin, dandruff, spit ends... i don't mind my own habits but my boyfriend and i are spending more time together, hoping to move in together next year and my habits have started on him too; picking his skin and scalp and stuff. I feel so horrible doing that to him and he doesn't know how to ask me to stop; just wondering if these kinds of habits are common? Or how i can help manage them? I have been trying so hard to just stop but i always start again.

Thanks for any help anyone can give me

[pipsy]

Dear LaurenAdele.  It sounds like a form of O.C.D.  Or it could be a side-effect from the meds.  Have you talked to your G.P about side- effects.  O.C.D is also a nervous complaint brought about from anxiety.  Have you been with your boyfriend long?  Possibly you are nervous about moving in with him.  If it is O.C.D, there are things you can do to control it.  If it is a side-effect, your G.P will let you know.  Side-effects can be pretty serious if they're not acknowledged.

Regards Pipsy

[LaurenAdele]

Hi pipsy, thanks for the reply,

I haven't talked to my GP yet but i think i will; better to find out now before i move out of home i think. I have been with him for quite a while, but i think i may be nervous about that. It is quite a big step.

Do you think if it is a side effect it may be easier to manage than if it is a manifestation of my anxiety?

Thanks again, LaurenAdele

[pipsy]

LaurenAdele.  Once you talk to your G.P, that will give you a clearer understanding of your problem.  If it is a side-effect, your G.P will advise you the best course of action.  If it is a manifestation of your anxiety, you need to discuss with your boyfriend what your needs are, what his needs are.  Be totally honest with each other.