Mental Health: Body Dysmorphic Disorder

• Engaging in repetitive behaviours, such as looking in a mirror, picking at the skin, trying to cover up the perceived defect.
• Continually asking for reassurance that the defect is not too noticeable.
• Repeatedly measuring or touching the perceived defect.
• Experiencing problems at school or work, or in relationships, due to the inability to stop focusing on the perceived defect.
• Feeling self-conscious and not wanting to go out in public.
• Repeatedly consulting medical specialists to find ways to improve their appearance.

One theory suggests BDD involves a problem with the size or functioning of specific brain areas. BDD often occurs in people with other mental disorders, such as major depression and anxiety.

Other factors that trigger BDD include:

• Experience of traumatic events or emotional conflict in childhood.
• Low self-esteem.
• Parents and others who were critical of the person's appearance.
• Pressure from peers and society that equates physical appearance with beauty and value.

Many BDD cases go unrecognised because people with the disorder often feel embarrassed and reluctant to speak about their concerns.

Treatment for BDD includes a combination of the following therapies:

• Psychotherapy. Individual counselling focuses on changing the thinking and behaviour of a person with BDD.
• Medication. Certain antidepressant medications called SSRIs are showing promise, as are antipsychotic medicines.
• Group and/or family therapy.

The outlook is promising for people with BDD who receive and follow treatment. Those with a strong support team tend to do better in the long run.

People with BDD are at high risk for developing major depression, and the distress associated with the disorder puts people with BDD at high risk for suicide. Treatment is advisable as soon as a person begins to have symptoms. Encouraging healthy and realistic attitudes about body image is helpful, as well as a supportive environment.