Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Fast Facts

What is Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)?

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition where a person becomes excessively preoccupied with perceived flaws or defects in their appearance, often focusing on features that are either minor or not observable to others.

How common is Body Dysmorphic Disorder?

BDD affects about 1–2% of the general population, although it may be higher as many people do not seek help due to shame or stigma.

Is Body Dysmorphic Disorder serious?

Yes. BDD can severely affect daily functioning, cause emotional distress, contribute to eating disorders, and increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.

When and how to get help with Body Dysmorphic Disorder

If you find yourself excessively concerned about your appearance to the point where it affects your daily life, work, or relationships, it’s important to seek help from a GP or mental health professional.

How to know if you have Body Dysmorphic Disorder

• Obsessively thinking about perceived flaws
  
• Frequently checking mirrors or avoiding mirrors altogether
  
• Excessive grooming or camouflage attempts (e.g., makeup, clothing)
  
• Comparing your appearance with others
  
• Seeking frequent cosmetic procedures without satisfaction
  

Typical signs and symptoms of BDD

• Preoccupation with one or more perceived physical flaws
  
• Engaging in repetitive behaviours (mirror checking, skin picking)
  
• Significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other areas of functioning
  
• Avoidance of social situations
  

Complications of untreated Body Dysmorphic Disorder

• Severe depression and anxiety
  
• Social isolation
  
• Occupational and academic impairment
• Suicidal thoughts and behaviours

What causes Body Dysmorphic Disorder?

• Genetic predisposition
  
• Neurobiological factors (e.g., serotonin imbalance)
  
• Childhood bullying or trauma
  
• Societal and cultural pressures emphasizing appearance
  

Risk factors for developing BDD

• Family history of BDD or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  
• Negative self-esteem or body image issues
  
• Personality traits such as perfectionism
  
• Exposure to teasing or criticism about appearance
  

Is Body Dysmorphic Disorder hereditary or lifestyle-based?

Both. Genetics, environment, and psychological factors interact in the development of BDD.

How is Body Dysmorphic Disorder diagnosed?

BDD is diagnosed through a detailed clinical interview assessing appearance concerns, associated behaviours, and the impact on daily functioning. There are specific diagnostic criteria in the DSM-5.

Tests and assessments used to identify BDD

• Clinical interviews
• Medical Questionnaires such as the BDDQ (Body Dysmorphic Disorder Questionnaire)
• Psychological assessments to rule out related conditions

Medical treatment for Body Dysmorphic Disorder

• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
  
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) specifically adapted for BDD
  
• Treatment of co-existing conditions like depression or anxiety
  

Therapies and interventions for BDD

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) with exposure and response prevention (ERP)
  
• Mindfulness-based therapies
  
• Group therapy for BDD
  

Do medications help with BDD?

SSRIs are often effective at reducing obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours related to BDD when combined with therapy.

Lifestyle changes to manage Body Dysmorphic Disorder

• Limiting time spent on appearance-related rituals
  
• Practising self-compassion techniques
  
• Building daily routines that focus on achievements and interests beyond appearance
  

Home remedies and self-help strategies

• Keeping a journal to track obsessive thoughts and triggers
  
• Using relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and meditation
• Engaging in non-appearance-focused hobbies

When should you get medical help for Body Dysmorphic Disorder?

• Persistent, intrusive appearance concerns causing distress
  
• Social withdrawal or interference with work/school
• Presence of depressive symptoms or suicidal thoughts

BDD in teenagers

Adolescents are especially vulnerable due to body image changes during puberty; early intervention is crucial.

BDD in older adults

BDD can persist into later life and is often underdiagnosed; awareness and sensitive screening are important.

BDD in people undergoing cosmetic procedures

Patients may seek multiple cosmetic surgeries without satisfaction. Screening for BDD before procedures is recommended.

Can you prevent Body Dysmorphic Disorder?

There is no guaranteed prevention, but early support for body image issues and promoting healthy self-esteem can reduce risk.

Tips to reduce your risk

• Promote body positivity and diversity
  
• Limit exposure to unrealistic beauty standards on social media
  
• Encourage focus on internal qualities over appearance
• Seek help early if body dissatisfaction becomes intrusive

Living with Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Recovery involves ongoing therapy, medication management where necessary, and support from a strong personal network.

How to manage BDD in the long term

• Continued therapy and follow-up
  
• Developing resilience against triggers
  
• Building self-worth beyond appearance
  
• Mindful use of social media and appearance-related content

This article is for general information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Medic Spot Limited has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but makes no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. In the event of an emergency, please call 999 for immediate assistance.

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