Body dysmorphic disorder

We all worry about the way we look from time to time, but what happens when that goes too far and we end up feeling really ugly or fat? Find out more about having a distorted body image here.

Do you see yourself as you really are?

What is body dysmorphic disorder (BDD)?

BDD is when you have a distorted body image and see yourself as very ugly or disfigured. Signs that you might have it include:

• Worrying a lot about your appearance, so much that it disrupts your life.
• You have habits that help you deal with these worries, such as looking in the mirror a lot or picking your skin. In this way BDD is quite similar to OCD.
• These habits disrupt your day to day life.
• Other symptoms can include anxiety, feelings of shame, drinking lots, loneliness, self-harm or even thoughts of suicide.

What causes BDD?

It’s hard to say what causes BDD. It could be because of low self-esteem, bullying, or abuse.

And genetic makeup or stresses such as family conflict are thought to play a part. It can also be seen in some people who have depression or psychosis. Research shows that distorted body image also affects young females more often than males.

What happens?

Some people with BDD often have problems eating. But having BDD doesn’t mean you’ll have an eating disorder, and not all people with eating disorders have BDD.

Some people get fixated on one part of their body, worrying too much about pimples, or the shape of their breasts, nose or penis.

When does it need treatment?

BDD needs treatment if it affects your day to day life. People who think they’re ugly often withdraw from daily life. They spend less time with their friends; lose concentration on their work and studies, and use up all their time and energy obsessing about the way they look. It can make you very depressed, and takes away your personal freedom and enjoyment of life.

What help is available?

If you think you’re suffering from BDD then you should go and see your GP. You might be worried they won’t understand or think that you’re vain, but GP’s know a lot about mental health and are difficult to surprise. They’ll give you treatment such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), medication or maybe even specialist support.

Someone with a serious eating disorder is often admitted to hospital. Behaviour modification, psychotherapy, group therapy and family therapy can all be helpful.

Many thanks to Dr Ghazala Afzal and Florence Nightingale Hospitals for their help with this article.