Millions of people worldwide struggle with body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) like hair pulling (trichotillomania), skin picking (dermatillomania), and nail-biting. These often subconscious habits can lead to emotional distress, physical damage, and social isolation. While traditional BFRB treatment therapies can offer some level of relief, many individuals continue to explore complementary tools to better manage their behaviors. Enter HabitAware, a company founded on personal experience and guided by a mission to help individuals build greater awareness and self-management skills in relation to their BFRBs.
HabitAware’s journey began with Aneela Idnani, a woman who silently lived with trichotillomania for over 20 years. The shame and secrecy surrounding her hair-pulling led her to conceal her condition from even her closest loved ones. It wasn’t until her husband, Sameer, noticed her behavior that Aneela finally felt safe enough to confront it. Together, they recognized the role that increased awareness could play in managing BFRBs and set out to develop a tool that would provide gentle, discreet reminders in real time. The result was Keen2, a smart bracelet designed to help users identify and interrupt BFRBs.
Keen2: A Companion on the Path to Increased Awareness
The Keen2 bracelet has become a meaningful tool for some of the 1 in 20 people estimated to experience BFRBs. Unlike fidget toys or other distractions that may offer momentary relief, Keen2 focuses on the challenge of reduced awareness, which often underpins these behaviors. This lightweight, stylish bracelet—available in charcoal and lilac—resembles a standard activity tracker, allowing for discretion and ease of wear. Its customizable sensors are trained to recognize the unique hand movements associated with a user’s specific BFRB. When those movements are detected, the bracelet emits a gentle vibration, nudging the wearer into conscious awareness. This subtle cue can be an important step in interrupting the trance-like state frequently reported by those with BFRBs and redirecting attention to more constructive responses.
But Keen2 is designed to be more than a notification device. It is part of a broader system aimed at promoting long-term self-awareness and behavior support. The accompanying Keen2 app offers a variety of resources, including:
Personalized Training: The app guides users through setting up the bracelet to effectively recognize their individual BFRB patterns.
Educational Courses: Users can deepen their understanding of BFRBs and learn about HabitAware’s behavior change strategies through video lessons and a printable workbook.
Data Tracking and Analysis: By visualizing progress and identifying patterns and triggers, users gain greater insight into their behavior over time.
Journaling Feature: A space to document thoughts, feelings, and reflections, helping users better understand their emotional landscape and behavioral context.
The HabitAware Difference: Empathy, Community, and Ongoing Support
What distinguishes HabitAware from many other tools is its whole-person approach and its emphasis on community and compassion. The company acknowledges that increasing awareness is only one piece of the puzzle—it must be accompanied by education, encouragement, and self-compassion.
HabitAware fosters connection and support through online forums, peer coaching, and interactive events. Their team is dedicated to providing guidance and creating a welcoming space for people navigating BFRBs. They understand that each individual’s journey is different and work to ensure users feel seen and supported throughout the process.
More Than Just a Product, a Supportive Partner
HabitAware’s mission extends beyond offering a wearable device—they are dedicated to empowering people to take steps toward improved mental well-being. The Keen2 bracelet, paired with their app and supportive resources, provides a thoughtfully designed toolkit for those seeking to better understand and manage their BFRBs.
If you or someone you care about is affected by a BFRB, HabitAware offers a compassionate and practical approach that may help foster increased awareness, connection, and self-confidence on the path forward.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The products are designed to assist in increasing awareness of body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) but should not replace medical or therapeutic interventions. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Published by Joseph T.
