Impulskontrollstörungen verstehen: Nägelkauen, Skin Picking und Co. | Dr. Robert Willi

What exactly is an impulse control disorder? And where is the line between a habit, stress-related behavior, and a mental disorder requiring treatment? The fact is, behaviors like nail-biting, skin picking, or similar actions are often underestimated. If those affected can't simply stop, there may be more to it than just nervousness or a lack of discipline. In this episode of "Is That Still Healthy?", Dr. Yael Adler talks with Dr. Robert Willi about impulse control disorders and why behaviors like nail-biting or skin picking can be so persistent. The specialist in psychotherapeutic medicine explains when seemingly harmless behavior becomes a psychological burden, what role tension, habit, and life changes play, and why stopping is often much harder than it appears from the outside. The conversation also addresses the suffering of those affected, possible causes, and when professional help might be advisable. Among other things, the following questions are answered in the discussion: • What is an impulse control disorder? • When is nail-biting pathological? • What is skin picking? • Why can't I just stop biting my nails or picking my skin? • What psychological causes might be behind skin picking and nail biting? • How are impulse control disorders treated? ► Chapters 00:00 – What are impulse control disorders? 01:11 – Typical examples of impulsive behavior 03:24 – Skin picking & physical impulses 07:16 – Causes: How does an impulse control disorder develop? 09:12 – Impulsivity vs. addiction vs. compulsion 10:39 – Distress in everyday life 12:32 – Causes: Genetics, psyche & ADHD 16:12 – Myths about impulse control disorders 17:24 – Treatment & therapy 21:22 – Tips: What helps in everyday life? 24:28 – Conclusion & key findings This podcast is also available on many other platforms: Is this still healthy? – The Techniker Health Podcast #podcast #health #impulsecontroldisorder #skinpicking #nailbiting #skinpicking #addiction ► More on health topics https://www.tk.de ► Social Media Facebook: Die Techniker (TK) | Hamburg Instagram: Die Techniker (@die_techniker) • Instagram profile Pinterest: Die Techniker (TK) TikTok: DieTechniker on TikTok ► About Techniker Healthy and fit with Techniker Krankenkasse health insurance Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) offers compelling benefits, expert advice, and top-notch service. Welcome to Germany's leading statutory health insurance provider. Techniker Krankenkasse health insurance provides you with the right coverage for every stage of life and advises you on all aspects of your well-being. On our website, you'll discover exciting topics and current trends in sports, nutrition, lifestyle, travel, and more. And with our newsletter, you'll always stay up-to-date on health-related topics. #DieTechniker