The reason why you bite your nails, according to a psychologist

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"Nail biting and skin picking are not just mindless reflexes, they are survival mechanisms, according to psychological analysis of our daily habits. There is no clear reason why people bite their nails, but there are a few theories. These include starting the habit to cope with challenging emotions, boredom and the need to keep your hands busy, as well as inheriting the habit from parents."

"By creating a small sensation, the body is able to create an immediate physical focus and an immediate release of tension and a sense of control, Dr Heriot-Maitland told The Independent, adding: That is preferable to the alternative, which is just out of control, overwhelming emotions. His new book, Controlled Explosions in Mental Health, is divided into three main sections: self-sabotage, self-criticism, and self-harm."

Journalists cover reproductive rights, climate change and Big Tech, investigating matters such as the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC and producing documentaries like 'The A Word' that highlight American women fighting for reproductive rights. Quality reporting aims to parse facts from messaging and to present both sides of stories. Journalism is trusted across the political spectrum and offered without paywalls, relying on donations from those who can afford it to keep reporting accessible. Nail biting and skin picking function as survival mechanisms with causes including coping with emotions, boredom, the need to keep hands busy, or inheritance from parents. Small harms create physical focus and tension release.

Read at www.independent.co.uk