What is Body Dysmorphic Disorder?

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), or body dysmorphia, is a condition which can affect men and women of any age but most commonly occurs in teenagers and young adults. Someone suffering from BDD spends a lot of time worrying about their appearance and gets fixated on perceived 'flaws' in the way they look.

What causes BDD?

The exact cause of BDD is unknown but it may be linked to genetic make up, chemical changes in the brain and, in some cases, may be triggered by trauma or an event occurring during childhood, e.g. playground taunts, parental criticism etc.

What are the signs of BDD?

Excessive worrying about the appearance of certain body parts, often the face
Spending a lot of time comparing yourself to how other people look
Constantly looking in the mirror or avoiding mirrors completely
Going to extreme lengths to conceal 'flaws', e.g. spending an abnormally long time applying make-up
Picking at skin or body hair

Can BDD be treated?

It can be very difficult to seek help for BDD, but it's important to remember that you have nothing to feel ashamed or embarrassed about. It is unlikely that BDD will resolve on its own so it is important to get help to prevent the condition from becoming worse. You should seek help from your GP in the first instance and they will likely ask you some questions about your feelings and how they are affecting your day to day life. You may be offered a type of anti-depressant medication or cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT). Depending on the severity of your symptoms they may choose to refer you to a specialist.

Mild BDD can be managed through self care - mindfulness, relaxation and simple breathing exercises can help to control negative feelings and low mood. It can also be useful to talk about it with a family member, partner or close friend, or if you don't feel comfortable talking about it with those close to you there are numerous organisations who can provide information and support, either online or in a face to face group session. The BDD Foundation has a directory of local and online BDD support groups and is a valuable resource for those looking for help with this condition.