Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Body dysmorphic disorder (՜D) is a mental health condition characterized by an excessive preoccupation with one's physical appearance. People with BDD may be concerned about a specific flaw in their appearance, or they may have a general feeling that they are not attractive. This preoccupation with appearance can cause significant distress and impairment in functioning.

What Causes Body Dysmorphic Disorder?

The exact cause of BDD is not known, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including:

• Genetic predisposition: People with a family history of BDD are at an increased risk of developing the disorder.
• Life experiences: People who have experienced teasing or bullying about their appearance may be at an increased risk of developing BDD.
• Personality factors: People with low self-esteem or a tendency to be anxious or obsessive may be at an increased risk of developing BDD.

What Are the Symptoms of Body Dysmorphic Disorder?

The main symptom of BDD is an excessive preoccupation with one's physical appearance. This preoccupation may be focused on a specific flaw in one's appearance, or it may be more general. Common areas of concern for people with BDD include:

• Skin: People with BDD may be concerned about their skin, including pimples, scars, or wrinkles. They may also be concerned about their hair or nails.
• Hair: People with BDD may be concerned about their hair, including its texture, color, or style. They may also be concerned about hair loss.
• Face: People with BDD may be concerned about their face, including their nose, lips, or chin. They may also be concerned about their teeth or smile.
• Breasts: Women with BDD may be concerned about their breasts, including their size, shape, or symmetry.
• Muscularity: Men with BDD may be concerned about their muscularity, including their size, shape, or definition.
• Genitals: People with BDD may be concerned about their, including their size, shape, or position.

How Is Body Dysmorphic Disorder Treated?

The treatment of BDD typically involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication.

• Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy can help people with BDD to challenge their negative thoughts about their appearance and develop more positive self-image.
• Medication: Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors ( SSRIs) can help to relieve the symptoms of BDD, including anxiety and depression.

What Is the Outlook for Body Dysmorphic Disorder?

The outlook for BDD is generally good with treatment. However, the disorder can be a chronic condition, and it may require long-term treatment.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Frequently Asked Questions

• Is body dysmorphic disorder a type of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?

Body dysmorphic disorder and OCD are both anxiety disorders, but they are not the same disorder. However, the two disorders can often occur together.

• Is body dysmorphic disorder the same as anorexia nervosa?

Body dysmorphic disorder and anorexia nervosa are both eating disorders, but they are not the same disorder. However, the two disorders can often occur together.

• What is the difference between body dysmorphic disorder and vanity?

Vanity is a normal human experience, while body dysmorphic disorder is a mental health condition. People with vanity may be concerned about their appearance, but they do not have the same level of distress and impairment as people with BDD.

• Where can I get more information about body dysmorphic disorder?

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has a website with more information about body dysmorphic disorder. The website also has a list of resources for people with BDD.