What is Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)?

Imagine feeling trapped in a cycle where thoughts about the way you look consume your day, dictate your choices, and may even influence your relationships. That’s what it’s like living with BDD.  

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a complex mental health condition that affects how you see and feel about your body and appearance. While everybody is different and unique, for those living with BDD, even minor or unnoticeable features can become sources of intense focus and distress, which can profoundly affect emotional well-being, daily life, and relationships. 

However, with the right combination of understanding, therapy, and support, BDD can be treated. 

What Are The Causes of BDD?

BDD can’t be narrowed down to a single cause—it’s often shaped by a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors:

• Biological and genetic factors: A family history of BDD, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or other mental health conditions may increase susceptibility.
• Psychological influences: Negative self-image, perfectionism, or experiences of criticism and bullying can contribute to BDD.
• Brain differences: Research suggests that certain neurological patterns might influence how individuals with BDD process appearance and emotions.
• Environmental triggers: Societal beauty standards or traumatic experiences, especially during formative years, may reinforce an unhealthy preoccupation with your body.

Recognising the Signs of BDD

Living with BDD often means navigating overwhelming thoughts and behaviours that can feel impossible to manage:

• Preoccupation with perceived flaws: Individuals may focus on specific aspects of their appearance, like skin, hair, or body shape, perceiving imperfections that others may not notice. This preoccupation can feel all-consuming.
• Repetitive behaviors: Constantly checking mirrors, grooming excessively, or frequently seeking reassurance are attempts to ease anxiety but often lead to further distress.
• Avoiding social interactions: Fear of judgment or scrutiny may cause individuals to withdraw from activities or avoid places where they feel vulnerable, such as those with mirrors or cameras.
• Heightened anxiety and isolation: Intense feelings of shame or embarrassment may lead to social withdrawal, affecting personal and professional relationships. 

Other signs or complications can also include:

Constantly checking the mirror or actively avoiding them 

• Avoiding taking photos 
• Comparing yourself with others 
• Trying to cover up the parts of your body you don’t like 
• Low self-esteem 
• Eating disorders 
• Misuse of substances
• Having thoughts of suicide 

How Can BDD be Treated? 

Like various mental health conditions, BDD can be treated through a combination of treatment methods: 

• Therapy: Methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) help individuals reframe negative thought patterns, challenge self-critical beliefs, and build healthier ways of thinking and behaving.
• Medication: Antidepressants can help alleviate anxiety and depressive symptoms commonly associated with BDD, making it easier to engage in therapy.

What Can I Do to Support a Loved One Living With BDD? 

If someone you care about is living with Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), you may feel unsure about how to help. While BDD can be a challenging condition to navigate, your support can make a meaningful difference in their journey toward getting better. Here are some ways you can offer support:

• Actively Listen: Try to create a safe space for your loved one to express their feelings and thoughts. Avoid dismissing their concerns as trivial or irrational, even if the perceived flaws seem minor or non-existent to you. Instead, acknowledge their emotions and validate their experiences.
• Avoid reinforcing compulsive behaviors: While it’s natural to want to reassure someone, try not to engage in behaviors that validate their compulsions, such as repeatedly agreeing with their concerns or participating in mirror-checking routines. Instead, encourage healthier coping strategies and highlight their positive qualities, such as their kindness, intelligence, or talents, to help them shift their focus away from perceived flaws.
• Educate yourself: Learning more about BDD can help you better understand what your loved one is going through. This knowledge can also prepare you to offer informed and empathetic support.
• Encourage professional help: Gently suggest seeking support from a mental health professional who is experienced in treating BDD. Offer to help them research therapists, book an appointment, or accompany them to a session if they feel comfortable.
• Be patient: Recovery from BDD takes time and effort. Avoid pushing your loved one to “get over it” or expecting immediate changes. Celebrate small progress and let them know you’re there for them, no matter what.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a deeply challenging condition, but with the right understanding and support, individuals can find a path toward healing and improved well-being. Whether you're living with BDD or supporting someone who is, know that help is available, and recovery is possible. Compassionate care, whether through professional treatment or the support of loved ones, can empower those affected to reclaim their confidence and focus on what truly matters. At Amaha, we are committed to providing empathetic, evidence-based support to help you or your loved one navigate this journey. Remember, you are not alone—there’s always a way forward, and we’re here to help every step of the way.