Nail biting, sometimes including surrounding skin, commonly signals anxiety and can range from mild habit to compulsive behavior. Called onychophagia, it affects all ages, especially youth. It can cause damage, infection, and dental strain, and may hurt confidence. Management can include cognitive behavioral therapy, habit reversal, stress reduction, and substitutes like stress balls, fidget tools, or bitter polish. Severe cases benefit from mental health support to address root triggers.
