How to Stop Chewing Your Nails

Nail biting may be a symptom of a bigger issue.

According to Brain Physics, onychophagia is the technical name for compulsive nail biting. Constant nail biting may be a symptom of deeper problems such as stress and anxiety. Regardless of why you bite your nails, it is crucial to address the nail biting when it first begins to avoid further damage. Nail biting can make cuticles unsightly and even painful to touch. Try a variety of possible solutions to rid yourself of nail chewing.

Things You'll Need

• Lotion
• Hand sanitizer
• Gum
• Pen
• Notebook

Instructions

1. Identify what triggers your nail chewing. Many people chew their nails when they are bored or stressed. Supplant your nail biting with productive activities such as reading, playing sports, cooking, exercising, writing, sewing or listening to music. Engage in a hobby anytime you feel the urge to chew your nails. After some time, you'll notice how little time you spend biting your nails.

2. Apply an unpleasant-smelling lotion or hand sanitizer to your hands around three times a day. The lotion or hand sanitizer will provide an unpleasant taste to your mouth should you attempt to chew your nails. Use these products anytime you feel the urge to chew your nails to help prevent you from doing so.

3. Keep a pack of chewing gum with you at all times. You are less likely to chew your nails if you already have something in your mouth to chew on. Put a piece of gum in your mouth anytime you get the urge to bite your nails. Purchase mints or your favorite candy if you do not like to chew gum.

4. Place your hands in your pocket when you are tempted to chew your nails. Keep your hands out of sight so you do not think about chewing on your nails. Keep a small hand-held game or cell phone in your pocket. Play the games on your device to take your mind off chewing your nails.

5. Think of an affirmation or statement avowing your abstinence from nail biting. Write the affirmation down in a notebook. Look at the affirmation once a day. Meditate on the affirmation throughout the day. This is a way to stay proactive instead of addressing the issue only when it arises.

Tips & Warnings

• Visit a physician if you cannot find a solution to resolve your nail-biting issue.

References

• BrainPhysics.com: Onychophagia: Compulsive Nail Biting
• KidsHealth: Your Child's Habits
• Health Central: Nail Biting Causes