Nail health can show how we feel inside, especially when we are anxious or stressed. Many people think nails are just about looks. However, split nails can mean more than bad grooming or exposure to the environment. They can be a sign of deeper emotional issues and stress that affect our well-being.
Read ahead to explore how the condition of our nails can reflect the psychological problems we face. Understanding this connection can help us take better care of both our nails and our mental health.
How Nails Depict Mental Health?
Biting your nails might seem like a simple habit. However, it can be a sign of ongoing anxiety. People who often have split nails may have anxiety issues. Research on PubMed shows that nail picking can indicate a deeper problem. If someone picks at their nails a lot, cannot stop even when it hurts, feels ashamed, or keeps doing it repeatedly, it could mean something more serious.
Nail biting and picking are also linked to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). If you struggle with nail-biting or picking, you might also have other similar habits, such as:
- Biting cheeks
- Pulling your hair (trichotillomania)
- Picking at your skin (excoriation)
- Grinding or clenching your teeth (bruxism)
- Recognising these signs can help you get the support you need.
The Impact of Stress on Nail Health
According to another study, stress causes a series of physical changes in the body. One important change is an increase in cortisol, known as the "stress hormone." High cortisol levels can harm physical health, including nail health. Research shows that stress makes it harder for the body to keep nails moist. This leads to dry and brittle nails that can split easily. Stress also affects how well nails heal after being damaged.
Here are some common signs of stress on nails:
- Brittle nails: These break easily because they lack moisture.
- Beau’s lines: These are horizontal lines across the nail caused by stopped nail growth during high stress.
- Vertical ridges: These can appear due to problems with nutrient flow caused by stress.
How Nails Break Due To Stress?
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Stress can cause nails to split in several ways. According to a study published by the American Academy of Dermatology, when stressed, the body produces more cortisol, which can negatively affect overall health, including nail strength. Many people bite or pick at their nails when anxious, weakening them and making them prone to splitting. Additionally, stress may lead to habits like frequent handwashing, which dries out nails. It can also interfere with nutrient absorption, leaving nails weak. Physical tension and injuries from using nails improperly can further contribute to splitting.
Causes of Anxiety
Anxiety can happen for many reasons. Dr Neerja Aggarwal, Psychologist, Emoneeds, Gurgaon, explained that anxiety disorders come from a mix of different factors. Below are some common causes mentioned by the expert.
- Genetics: If someone in your family has anxiety, you might be more likely to have it too.
- Traumatic Events: Experiencing something very stressful or scary can trigger anxiety.
- Chronic Stress: Ongoing stress from work, school, or personal life can lead to anxiety.
- Brain Chemistry: Imbalances in brain chemicals can affect mood and anxiety levels.
- Personality Traits: Some people are naturally more anxious or shy.
- Childhood Experiences: Negative experiences in childhood, like abuse or neglect, can lead to anxiety later in life.
- Health Issues: Conditions like depression or thyroid problems can increase anxiety.
- Substance Use: Using drugs or alcohol can worsen anxiety symptoms.
How To Treat Anxiety?
Treating anxiety can be done in different ways. Dr Nimesh Desai, Senior Consultant Psychiatrist and Former Director, IHBAS, Delhi, that not everyone needs medicine due to the urbanisation of the 21st century. Sometimes, being aware of your feelings and learning to cope can be enough. Here are some steps to treat anxiety:
- Visit a Professional: Start by seeing a psychiatrist or psychologist. They can help you understand your problems better.
- Talk About Your Feelings: Sharing what you feel can help you find solutions.
- Consider Therapy: Different types of therapy, like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), can help change negative thoughts and behaviours.
- Practice Self-Care: Regular exercise, good sleep, and healthy eating can reduce anxiety.
- Explore Medication: If needed, doctors may prescribe medication to help manage symptoms.
Conclusion
Split nails can indeed be a sign of underlying anxiety or stress. Understanding the connection between emotional well-being and physical manifestations like nail conditions is crucial for addressing both issues effectively. By recognising the symptoms and implementing strategies for both mental health and nail care, individuals can work towards healthier nails and improved emotional resilience.