Learning About Body Dysmorphic Disorder

What is body dysmorphic disorder?

People who have body dysmorphic (say "dis-MOR-fick") disorder (BDD) have false beliefs about their body and their appearance. They see flaws in their appearance that others don't see. And they spend many hours every day worrying about these flaws and trying to hide or fix them. They may often compare their appearance to the appearance of others. When other people tell them that they look fine and that they don't see any flaws, a person with BDD will have a hard time believing them.

People with BDD are often very anxious about how they look. They may stop going to work or school. They may avoid friends, family, and social events. They may find it very hard to date or have romantic relationships. Some may consider suicide.

Daily life can be very hard for people who have BDD. They may feel ashamed of how they look. They may worry that others will reject them or not be able to love them.

The cause of the disorder is not known. But it may be due to a mix of genetics, family behaviors, social factors, and personality traits.

BDD is a mental health condition that can be treated with medicines and counseling. Treatment can help people who have BDD see themselves in a more positive way.

What are the symptoms?

People who have BDD may:

• Focus a lot on flaws in their appearance that others do not see.
• Do certain things a lot because they're worried about how they look, such as:
  • Spending many hours a day checking their appearance in mirrors and windows or avoiding them.
  • Trying to hide the "flawed" part from others by often changing their hair, clothes, makeup, or posture.
  • Picking at their skin.
  • Often asking others about their appearance.
  • Often comparing their appearance to the appearance of others.
  • Spending many hours a day lifting weights to look more muscular.
• Avoid work, school, friends, family, or social activities because they are so anxious about how they look.

How is BDD treated?

There are two main treatments for BDD:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy. This is a type of counseling that focuses on changing certain thoughts and behaviors. It can help you change how you think and feel about your appearance. Try to find a counselor you feel comfortable with and who understands your condition. Your doctor can help you find one.
• Medicines, such as serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These are usually used together with counseling.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• You feel you cannot stop from hurting yourself or someone else.

Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

If you or someone you know talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can:

• Call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
• Call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
• Text HOME to 741741 to access the Crisis Text Line.

Consider saving these numbers in your phone.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You have new anxiety, or your anxiety gets worse.
• You have been feeling sad, depressed, or hopeless or have lost interest in things that you usually enjoy.
• You are not getting better as expected.