Nail Biting: At some point, we all ask ourselves, "Why do I keep doing this to myself?" Whether it's procrastinating on an important deadline, biting our nails until they bleed, or pushing people away before they can reject us, our thoughts are often negative. In her new book, "Controlled Explosions in Mental Health," psychologist Dr. Charlie Herriot-Maitland suggests that these self-destructive behaviors may not be as problematic as we think. In fact, these behaviors are linked to our innate survival instincts.

What's the Harm?
According to a new psychological analysis, self-harming and self-sabotaging behaviors, from skin picking to cutting off contact with people, stem from survival mechanisms. In her new book, the psychologist explores the underlying needs behind these harmful behaviors. She argues that while these behaviors may seem counterintuitive, the brain uses these minor harms as a protective shield against greater harm. For example, someone might delay starting a project, causing themselves harm, but they are trying to avoid a greater harm, such as failure or rejection.

According to Dr. Charlie Herriot-Maitland, self-sabotage is our brain's way of protecting us from harm. It's an ancient mechanism designed to shield us from uncertainty and danger.

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