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Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is the pathological preoccupation with an imagined or exaggerated defect in one’s physical appearance. The struggle with self-image, self-esteem, and self-love affects boys and girls alike.
Common Signs and Symptoms
- Preoccupation with your physical appearace with extreme self-consciousness.
- Frequent examination of yourself in the mirror, or the opposite, avoidace of mirrors altogether.
- Firm belief that your appearance is abnormal or defective and therefore ugly.
- Convinced that people notice your appearance in a negative way.
- Avoidance of social situations.
- Feeling the need to stay housebound.
- You need reassurance about your appearance from other people.
- Frequent cosmetic procedures with little satisfaction.
- Your compare your appearance against that of others.
Common Body Obsessions
- Your face, nose, wrinkles, acne, etc.
- Your breast size.
- Your hair, thinning, baldness.
- Your muscle size and tone.
- Your skin and vein appearance.
- Your teeth.
When it Becomes a Serious Problem
Quite often, individuals with body dysmorphic disorder have concerns that are so extreme, their interaction with others becomes very limited. They avoid eye contact with strangers, or actually hide their perceived flaw. Nearly half the people who have this disorder seek surgery or other treatments, and often feel worse afterward. For many, staying at home is the best solution, which in turn causes additional depression. Over ten percent attempt suicide.
This report is not a diagnosis. We hope this information can guide you into improving your life.
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