Body Dysmorphic Disorder is the preoccupation with perceived defects in one's physical appearance that are not observable to others.
What is BDD?
Commonly considered a type of obsessive-compulsive disorder
Preoccupation over one's physical appearance to the extent it impairs daily/social/occupational functioning
Affects 0.7% to 2.4% of general population at a given time
While the illness affects both sexes, it is more common in women
Common Presenting Behaviours
Compulsive behaviours such as checking self repeatedly in the mirror, reassurance seeking, excessive exercising, excessive grooming, repeatedly changing clothes and skin picking
Avoidance behaviour- avoiding social interactions to avoid negative judgement on appearance
Excessively focus on one or more body parts. Common features people fixate on include skin (73%), hair (56%), nose (37%), eyes (20%), breasts (21%), stomach (22%), and facial structures (12%). Individuals may also fixate on their genitalia. There is also muscle dysphoria where an individual is fixated on their body build or finds their muscles too small.
Risk Factors
Childhood adversity such as bullying/teasing and abuse
Lack of familial support and family criticism on appearances
High aesthetic standards and sensitivity
Social media
Perfectionism
Dermatological problems
Socio-cultural factors such as perceived beauty standards
Other mental health conditions
Treatment Options
Cognitive-Behavioural Treatment to focus on altering thought patterns of perceived distortions
Exposure and Response prevention
Interpersonal psychotherapy
Medications
eg: Antidepressants
Ending Note
BDD can often go undetected despite individuals with BDD have lower quality of life, poorer life outcomes and higher risk of suicide.
While there is no known way to prevent it, early identification and treatment by a medical professional and help one manage his/her symptoms.
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