This post is about body dysmorphia
Everyone has had one of those days where they just don’t like the way they look. It is normal to have some type of insecurity about yourself, after all none of us is perfect. However if you are constantly fixated on a flaw of your physical appearance, you might be suffering from body dysmorphia disorder or BDD. BDD can make you obsessed with a flaw that people can’t see or one that is minor.
What is Body Dysmorphia
When you are suffering from BDD, you are fixated on your physical features. You might spend several hours in the mirror checking to see if you are looking “perfect”. BDD will amplify your flaws and insecurities. You might even avoid going to work or social gatherings because you think you are being judge because of your flaws or unattractiveness. Some people who suffer from BDD will obsess over flaws that can and can not be seen. In order to “fix” the flaw, one might undergo cosmetic surgery. However this only provides short term satisfaction. Cosmetic procedures can lead to deformed physical features making the condition worse.
Causes
There is no definitive cause of BDD. However there are a combination of factors that can cause is to develop such as having a family member who suffers from it or if you are a perfectionist. Constantly having your body critiqued or you over analyzing your body can lead to you being diagnosed with body dysmorphia. Another cause of this mental disorder is trying to live up to society’s standard of beauty. With the constant pressure of looking impressive, it can lead to other mental disorders such as bulimia and anorexia.
Symptoms
- Avoiding social gatherings because of fear of being judge
- Compulsive thoughts
- Spending hours in the mirror
- Traumatic childhood
- Perfectionism
- Suffering from other mental disorders
- Comparing yourself to others
- Using makeup to change your appearance
- Having cosmetic surgery and having little to no satisfaction later
Complications of BDD
- Isolation
- Depression
- Eating Disorders
- Drug Abuse
- OCD
- Excoriation Disorder (skin picking)
Treatment for Body Dysmorphia Disorder
To find out if you are suffering from BDD, consult your doctor. Although having BDD will not let you believe this, you are beautiful. It does not matter how much you weigh, body type, skin color, or flaw you wish you didn’t have, YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL. Here are some tips on how to love yourself more!
