WebTalkRadio
WebTalkRadio
Skin-Picking and ADHD
Skin-Picking and ADHD
Skin-Picking and ADHD
Tuesday 22nd February 2022
Dr. Roberto Olivardia explores the connection between ADHD and skin-picking, discussing coping strategies and medication impacts in 'ADHD Focus'.
32 minutes
Informative
Eye-opening
Thought-provoking
Engaging
Educational
About this podcast
Author:
WebTalkRadio
Overview:
Categories:
Parenting & Children
Sobriety Toolkit
Navigating Intimate Relationships
Recovery from Trauma
Mindfulness & Technology in Health
Links:
Visit site
Episodes:
80 (View all)
Do you want to link to this podcast?
Get the buttons here!Unraveling Skin-Picking and ADHD with Dr. Roberto Olivardia
But with ADHD, it can be a little bit different, and with those patients, they will regard the behavior as very stimulating, that, even though it can be painful at times, even though it can draw blood, that you know, as we know, the people with ADHD we're kind of in a reward deficit in our brain, and so anything that's stimulating is rewarding.
Why do some people with ADHD find themselves compulsively picking at their skin or pulling out their hair? In this episode of 'ADHD Focus', host David Pomeroy sits down with clinical psychologist Dr. Roberto Olivardia to explore this puzzling behavior. They dive into the ways ADHD can manifest in such compulsive actions, offering a fresh perspective on the connection between the two. Dr. Olivardia explains that while skin-picking can be linked to ADHD, it's not always straightforward.
The behavior can range from picking at scabs to popping zits or even pulling out hair, often providing a strange sense of stimulation despite the potential pain. A key part of their discussion revolves around whether ADHD medications can exacerbate skin-picking. Dr. Olivardia notes that while it's uncommon for stimulant medications to worsen the behavior, it's a possibility worth discussing with a healthcare provider if it becomes an issue.
He emphasizes the importance of communication between patients and doctors to tailor treatments effectively. So, how can individuals cope with skin-picking? Dr. Olivardia offers practical strategies like keeping hands busy with activities such as folding laundry or using fidget toys. He also suggests protective measures like wearing gloves to make the behavior less accessible. For some, underlying issues like body image concerns or trauma might be contributing factors, making therapy a valuable tool in addressing these deeper problems.
The episode also touches on the genetic aspect of skin-picking and the dynamics within families dealing with this behavior. Dr. Olivardia shares intriguing stories from his practice, including one about a patient who managed to stop hair-pulling by twirling the hair of a stuffed animal instead. This episode is packed with insights and practical advice for anyone struggling with skin-picking or looking to understand it better.