Why do I do these things?

Question

I have this habit of counting all sides of something in my head. example: if im riding in a car and i see a car, i will count all sides, all corners, all sides of the wheels, ect. not for any reason i just do it and it dont have to be any specific object. i also have this habit of biting my nails til they are sore and so low that they bleed sometimes. i do this without realizing it and when i do realize that im doing it i cant stop til i bite the nail all the way down, but i love wearing artificial nails. and i dont bite them. why do i do these things and how can i stop and grow my nails out?

Answer 1

This might give you some ideas on the nail biting:

http://www.howtodothings.com/fashion-and-personal-care/a2067-how-to-stop-nail-biting.html

The other trouble with 'counting' things I have heard it is called something like Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. I found some more information here:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/obsessive-compulsive-disorder/DS00189

I don't think it is a terrible thing... as long as it doesn't overtake your life... but counting sides of a car and stuff? I have heard of people wasting their time doing worse things than that! I wouldn't worry about it too much :)

Answer 2

You sound as if you have obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), please see a doctor who can prescribe medication for this.