by Conny Manero

Created on: June 21, 2010   Last Updated: June 24, 2010

Whether you bite your nails because of nervousness, anxiety or fear, you are not alone.  A lot of people bite their nails for one reason or another and on one point they all agree ... it's hard to stop.  Some bite their nails until the cuticles bleed and then wonder ‘What is wrong with me?’

Instead of wondering, think for a moment why you are biting your nails?  Is there a particular reason or cause that triggers the biting?  Is it an event or a person that causes this nail biting? 

Perhaps you could consider the following:

-  If anxiety is your problem, try a relaxing technique.  This could be music, reading, counting back from one hundred or going for a walk.  If this does not work, consider taking up meditation or yoga.  You could even talk to your doctor, who would then refer you to a psychologist to hypnotise you.

-  Educate yourself about nail biting by doing research.  Just by being more aware of the problem, you might be able to analyze your situation and find a solution. 

-  If biting is what you want to do, or feel the need to do, why not bite something other than your nails?  You could chew on a carrot or celery stick.  If your mouth wants something to, pop a mint or a piece of candy, or chew some gum.

-  Perhaps you need a physical reminder not to chew.  In that case, wear a rubber band around your wrist and snap it every time you want to chew your nails.  The pain of the rubber band will remind you that you are about to hurt yourself by biting your nails.

-  Tell your family, friends and colleagues about your problem and ask for their help.  If you are biting subconsciously, they will remind you to stop your every time your fingers go to your mouth.

-  You could start taking better care of your hands by getting a manicure.  Once your nails look good, you will want to keep them that way.  Beautiful nails might be a motivation to stop.  You could even consider getting acrylic nails.  Your nails will instantly look good and you won't be able to bite the acrylic covers.

-  Alternatively you could buy a bitter tasting nail polish, especially designed to combat nail biting. 

-  Whatever you do, if you are succeeding, even a small victory, give yourself a reward.  A nice ring, bracelet or wristwatch might be just the thing to get you motivated.

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