Breaking the Cycle: Body-Focused Repetitive Behavior Awareness Day

Every October, communities around the world recognize Body-Focused Repetitive Behavior (BFRB) Awareness Day, a time dedicated to shining a light on conditions that are often misunderstood and kept hidden in silence. BFRBs include behaviors such as hair pulling (trichotillomania), skin picking (dermatillomania or excoriation disorder), nail biting (onychophagia), and cheek biting, among others. These are not simple habits; they are complex, compulsive behaviors that can cause both physical harm and emotional distress. Despite affecting an estimated one in twenty people, BFRBs often remain overlooked, leaving many to struggle alone or feel misunderstood.

For those who experience a BFRB, the behavior often begins subtly perhaps pulling a strand of hair during stress or picking at skin while lost in thought. Over time, these actions can become difficult to control, creating a frustrating cycle of tension, behavior, brief relief, and guilt or shame. It’s important to understand that BFRBs are not about willpower or appearance; they are neurological and emotional conditions that can be connected to anxiety, perfectionism, or the need for sensory regulation. Recognizing this helps shift the conversation from blame to understanding.

Awareness matters because it opens the door to empathy, education, and effective support. When someone learns that their behavior has a name and that they are not alone, it can be incredibly empowering. Awareness Day encourages people to speak openly about their experiences, breaking the stigma that has long surrounded these conditions. It also inspires research, advocacy, and the creation of supportive spaces where people can share their stories without fear of judgment.

There are many ways to get involved: sharing accurate information on social media, starting conversations in schools or workplaces, listening to others’ experiences with compassion, or simply taking time to learn. For those living with a BFRB, healing is not about perfection—it’s about progress, patience, and self-compassion. Every step toward awareness, every moment of understanding, is meaningful.

If you or someone you love is struggling with a BFRB, seeking professional help can make a significant difference. Therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Habit Reversal Training (HRT), and Comprehensive Behavioral (ComB) therapy have shown strong results in helping people manage urges and build healthier coping strategies.