What is Body Dysmorphia?
Body Dysmorphic Disorder is a mental health problem or condition in which you can't stop thinking about flaws in your appearance or could say some defects in your body or can't be seen by others which could give you mental trauma in return. But you might feel very ashamed or embarrassed of yourself and anxious that you always try to avoid many social situations.
When you have body dysmorphic disorder, you focus a lot on your appearance and body image, checking the mirror again and again, asking for reassurance time and again, sometimes for many more hours everyday. It could also impact your ability to function in your daily life.
You may seek out numerous cosmetic procedures to try to "fix" this flaw in your appearance. Afterward, you may feel temporary satisfaction or a reduction in your distress, but often the anxiety returns and you may resume searching for other ways to fix your perceived flaw.
Causes of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)
It is not known yet very specifically what are the actual causes of Body Dysmorphic Disorder. Like many other mental health conditions, body dysmorphic disorder may result because of several combinations, such as a family history of the disorder, bad comments or experiences about your body or your image, and abnormal brain function or abnormal levels of the brain chemical called serotonin.
Complications
Body Dysmorphic Disorder can lead to several complications, such as:
- Self-esteem is low
- Isolation from society
- Major depression or other mood disorders
- Thoughts of Suicide
- Anxiety disorders, including social phobia
- Obsessive-compulsive tendencies
- Eating disorders
- Health issues from behaviors like skin picking
- Physical pain or risk of disfigurement due to repeated cosmetic procedures
Body Dysmorphic Disorder Symptoms
- Body Dysmorphic disorder Symptoms can be seen after excessive concern over a perceived flaw in appearance that seems minor or unnoticeable to others.
- Making a Strong belief that you have a defect making you appear unattractive or deformed.
- Feeling self-conscious or believing others who mock your looks.
- Repetitive behaviors such as checking mirror time and again, excessive grooming, or skin picking to fix or conceal perceived flaws.
- Using styling, makeup, or clothing to mask imperfections.
- Comparing your appearance with others.
- Seeking constant reassurance from others about your looks.
- Perfectionist tendencies focused on appearance.
- Pursuing cosmetic procedures with minimal or no satisfaction.
- Avoiding social interactions to escape judgment or embarrassment is also a body dysmorphia symptoms.
When to Seek Help
If you’re continuously feeling shame or embarrassed about your appearance might prevent you from seeking treatment for Body Dysmorphic Disorder. It is very important to consult a doctor or mental health provider if you notice any signs or symptoms as soon as possible.
Body dysmorphic disorder rarely improves without intervention. If it is not treated on time, it could worsen over time, leading to increased anxiety, financial strain from medical procedures, severe depression, and even thoughts or actions of self-harm.
How is Body Dysmorphic Disorder Treated, and Is There a Cure?
While Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) cannot be cured, it is manageable with proper treatment. Treatment often involves a combination of approaches, including:
- Psychotherapy: This form of mental health therapy focuses on exploring feelings and experiences while building positive thought patterns in mind and coping with some strategies. Common types of psychotherapy used for BDD include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and family therapy.
- Medications: Antidepressants are frequently prescribed to manage BDD symptoms. These medications can help regulate thoughts and behaviors, making psychotherapy more effective.
Possible Complications or Side Effects of Treatment
Different medications used for BDD may have varying side effects. It is very important to discuss potential risks and all the complications with your healthcare provider to understand what to expect.
FAQs
What is body dysmorphia disorder?
Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition where an individual becomes engaged in concentrating on flaws in their appearance, often causing significant distress and impacting daily life.
What is the best treatment for BDD?
The best treatment for BDD typically combines cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to address negative thought patterns and antidepressant medications to manage symptoms.
How to help a girl with body dysmorphia?
Offer emotional support, encourage her to seek professional help, and avoid validating or criticizing her appearance. Gently guide her toward therapy and self-care practices.