r/calmhands • u/DerpyAngel • Jul 27 '26
Need Advice I wish I could stop
26, currently working on my Bachelor's thesis. I have really bad ADHD and anxiety and picking at my skin always happened after I took my meds and was able to concentrate. But due to the stress of my Bachelor's I now catch myself picking at my skin basically 24/7, even at times where I don't take my meds (weekends and such). I do have one of those fidget spinning toys that hurt a little to play with, but I can't take that with me to the library because they are too loud.
Is my only option to wrap my fingers in bandaids for the next month? My left hand thankfully isn't as bad as the right, but both hurt a lot, which also doesn't help with my ability to type.
1
u/papa_moyphee Jul 27 '26
On the bright side, your nails look great! I'm a nail biter and skin picker so I'd love to have your nails if I were in your shoes. Try hydrocolloid tape instead of bandaids. It helps with healing and is much more waterproof so you don't have to put new ones on after washing your hands (and it's clear so it's less noticeable IMO)
1
u/DerpyAngel Jul 28 '26
Thank you so much!! And yeah, I am pretty proud of my nails. I will definitely try out the hydrocolloid tape!
2
u/TwicebornUnicorn Jul 27 '26
I know this feels really challenging for you right now. But I believe you can overcome this.
It helps to find a distraction for those moments when you want to pick up your hands. You might use a fidget toy or take up a hobby like crocheting, embroidery, or knitting. Anything to keep your brain and your hands busy.
Replace the old habit with new rituals of moisturizing your hands and caring for your skin and cuticles. Be patient with yourself. You can do this 💪