Overview
Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition where an individual is excessively preoccupied with a perceived flaw in their appearance that others may not notice or consider minor. People with BDD experience significant distress and anxiety due to their obsessive focus on their appearance, leading to repetitive behaviors such as mirror checking, grooming, and seeking reassurance. They may engage in cosmetic procedures to address their perceived flaws, but the anxiety typically returns. BDD can negatively impact an individual's social life, self-esteem, and overall well-being. Treatment may involve cognitive behavioral therapy and medication.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder include being extremely preoccupied with a perceived flaw in appearance that others can't see or perceive as significant, having a strong belief that one has a defect in their appearance that makes them ugly or deformed, believing others notice and mock their appearance negatively, engaging in behaviors to fix or hide the perceived flaw that are difficult to resist or control, attempting to hide flaws with styling, makeup, or clothes, constantly comparing appearance with others, frequently seeking reassurance about appearance from others, having perfectionist tendencies, and seeking cosmetic procedures but experiencing little satisfaction.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing body dysmorphic disorder include:
- Having blood relatives with body dysmorphic disorder or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
- Negative life experiences, such as childhood teasing, neglect, or abuse.
- Certain personality traits, such as perfectionism.
- Societal pressure or expectations of beauty.
- Having another mental health condition, such as anxiety or depression. It's important to note that the exact cause of body dysmorphic disorder is not known, but a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurobiological factors may contribute to its development.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
If you suspect someone has body dysmorphic disorder, you should see a doctor or a mental health professional when you observe any of the following signs or symptoms: extreme preoccupation with a perceived flaw in appearance, strong belief that they have a defect in their appearance, engaging in repetitive behaviors to fix or hide the perceived flaw, avoiding social situations, and seeking reassurance about their appearance from others. Seeking help is crucial to prevent the condition from worsening, as untreated body dysmorphic disorder can lead to anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts and behavior.
Diagnosis
To diagnose body dysmorphic disorder, a healthcare provider will typically conduct a medical evaluation to rule out other medical conditions. A mental health professional will then perform a psychological evaluation that assesses risk factors, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to negative self-image, as well as personal, social, family, and medical history. The diagnosis is typically based on these factors, along with a careful examination of the individual's signs and symptoms.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of body dysmorphic disorder may include low self-esteem, social isolation, major depression or other mood disorders, suicidal thoughts or behavior, anxiety disorders, including social anxiety disorder (social phobia), obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders, substance misuse, and health problems from behaviors such as skin picking. Additionally, there may be physical pain or risk of disfigurement due to repeated surgical interventions.
Home Remedies
It is important to seek professional help from a mental health professional for the treatment of body dysmorphic disorder. They will be able to provide appropriate guidance and recommend the best course of action.
Treatment
Treatment for body dysmorphic disorder typically includes a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication. CBT helps individuals identify and change negative thoughts and behaviors associated with their perceived flaws, while medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can help regulate brain chemistry and reduce anxiety or depression related to the disorder. It's important to consult a mental health professional for proper evaluation and tailored treatment plans.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for body dysmorphic disorder, you should make a list of the following:
- Any symptoms you or your family have noticed, along with their duration.
- Key personal information, including traumatic events in your past and current stressors.
- Your family's medical history, particularly any history of mental health conditions such as body dysmorphic disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
- Your medical history, including any physical or mental health conditions you've been diagnosed with. It's helpful to bring a relative or friend for support and to provide additional information about your home life. During the appointment, be prepared to discuss your eating habits, thoughts about your appearance, any physical symptoms, and family history of eating disorders. Make sure to ask any questions you may have, such as treatment options, potential side effects, and recommended resources. Remember to take your time and be honest with your healthcare provider or mental health professional to ensure the best possible care.