What is Body Dysmorphia?

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If you or someone you love struggle with personal appearance and liking what reflects in the mirror, maybe you wonder why your self-image is such a problem. If this problem extends into other areas of your life and causes a range of effects, then it may be an actual mental health disorder known as BDD, or body dysmorphic disorder. So, what is body dysmorphia and how can you stop it?

What is Body Dysmorphia?

So you’re wondering, what is body dysmorphia? Is it a passing phase, or a real mental health problem? Is there such a thing as body dysmorphic treatment?

Body dysmorphia (BDD), is a condition where you obsess over your appearance and perceived flaws. You perceive small flaws as major imperfections in your mind, or you imagine flaws that do not exist at all.

Other people fail to see the things you point out about your body. They do not understand why you feel shame or distress when you look at yourself in the mirror. That is why doctors once called the condition “imagined ugliness.” Another term for it is dysmorphophobia or fear of being deformed.

What are the signs and symptoms of BDD?

Another clear way of understanding and recognizing body dysmorphia comes down to the condition’s symptoms. Maybe you recognize these signs or symptoms of BDD in yourself or a loved one:

  • Obsession with physical appearance and ugliness
  • Frequently looking in mirrors or avoiding them
  • Believing others see your appearance as bad or ugly
  • Focus on having cosmetic procedures, but without satisfaction
  • Extreme self-focus, grooming, and skin picking
  • Avoiding being in photos and social situations
  • Hiding behind makeup and clothing

For example, someone who seems obsessed with their nose, hair, skin, freckles, acne, moles, or blemishes could be suffering from body dysmorphia. Likewise, people who seem too focused on their baldness, breast size, physique, or genitalia sometimes have the disorder as well.

All of this obsession comes at a hefty price, such as lost friends, opportunities, and focus on what truly matters in daily living. Many people with BDD are suicidal or also suffer mental health disorders like anxiety or depression. Still, others go through excessive plastic surgeries, weight fluctuations, or other harmful changes. Eating disorders often accompany body dysmorphia also.

Treatment for Body Dysmorphia and Eating Disorders in Anderson, Indiana

Women suffering from a variety of eating disorders and BDD gain better health and healing in Anderson, Indiana at Selah House. So, if you or someone you love struggle with intense distress over body image, Selah House can provide restorative Christ-centered treatment for a brighter future.

Programs and methods of Selah House include:

BDD is a serious disease. It often leads to co-occurring conditions that prove life-threatening. So as you question what is body dysmorphia, talk to a qualified specialist about treatment. Call Selah House in Anderson, Indiana now at 765.819.2524 for more information about our available programs. You can help yourself or your loved one put BDD in the past.

Take the First step for yourself or someone your love

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