Definition of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition characterized by obsessive preoccupation with a perceived defect or flaw in one’s physical appearance. People with BDD usually have excessive and distressing concerns about their appearance, which leads to severe emotional distress and impaired functioning in daily life.

Diagnostic Criteria for BDD

To be diagnosed with BDD, an individual must meet the following criteria:

  1. Preoccupation with one or more perceived flaws in physical appearance that are not observable to others, or appear slight to others.
  2. The preoccupation causes significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.
  3. The preoccupation is not better explained by concerns regarding weight or body fat in someone with an eating disorder.
  4. The preoccupation is not better attributed to another mental disorder.

Common Symptoms of BDD

Individuals with Body Dysmorphic Disorder may experience the following symptoms:

  • Excessive concern with their physical appearance, often focusing on a specific body part or feature.
  • Frequent examination of the perceived flaw, such as excessive mirror-checking or comparing oneself to others.
  • Repeatedly seeking reassurance from others about their appearance.
  • Avoidance of social situations or activities due to self-consciousness or embarrassment about their appearance.
  • Engaging in repetitive behaviors or rituals to camouflage or fix the perceived flaw, such as excessive grooming, makeup application, or seeking cosmetic procedures.
  • Constantly feeling self-conscious and dissatisfied with their appearance, even if others perceive them as attractive or normal-looking.
  • Experiencing high levels of anxiety or depression related to their appearance concerns.

Treatment for BDD

Treatments for BDD typically involve a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often the primary psychotherapy approach used to help individuals challenge and modify their distorted beliefs about their appearance. Antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), may also be prescribed to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.

It is important for individuals with BDD to seek professional help from mental health practitioners who specialize in body image disorders to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.