Body Dysmorphic Disorder – When The Mirror Lies
- Mar 20, 2023
- 3 min read
Written by: Dr. Belynder Walia, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
In a world so fixated on looks and appearance, it is common to feel self-conscious about certain aspects of our bodies. But for some individuals, this concern can spiral into something much more severe, affecting their mental health and overall well-being. In this article, I will discuss Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), which affects millions worldwide. So let's dive in!
What is Body Dysmorphic Disorder?
Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a mental health disorder that causes a person to have a distorted perception of their appearance. Individuals with BDD often become fixated on perceived flaws, leading to severe anxiety, depression, and difficulty socialising. They may spend hours checking their appearance in mirrors or avoiding social situations that may highlight their perceived flaws. In some cases, individuals with BDD may resort to cosmetic procedures or excessive grooming to try and "fix" their perceived flaws, which can often worsen their condition.
What Causes Body Dysmorphic Disorder?
BDD's exact cause is unknown, but various factors may contribute to its development. For example, genetics, brain chemistry, traumatic experiences, and social and cultural factors such as societal pressure to conform to specific beauty standards or a culture that places a high value on appearance may all contribute to the development of BDD.
Symptoms of Body Dysmorphic Disorder
People with BDD may exhibit a range of symptoms, including:
Preoccupation with one or more perceived flaws in their appearance that others may not notice or consider minor.
They repeatedly check or compare their appearance in mirrors, windows, or other reflective surfaces.
They may spend excessive time grooming, applying makeup, or attempting to conceal perceived flaws.
They avoid social situations or activities that may highlight their perceived flaws.
They may experience severe anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts due to appearance concerns.
Treatment for Body Dysmorphic Disorder
BDD is a treatable condition, and with the proper treatment, individuals with BDD can experience significant improvement. Treatment options for BDD may include:
Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT): CBT is a form of talk therapy that helps individuals with BDD challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs about their appearance, learn new coping strategies, and gradually face their fears.
Medications: Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed to help manage the symptoms of BDD.
Support Groups: Support groups can provide individuals with BDD a safe space to share their experiences, gain support, and learn from others who have experienced similar struggles.
Steps to Overcoming Body Dysmorphic Disorder
If you suspect you may have BDD, there are steps you can take to start overcoming it:
Seek Professional Help: If you suspect you may have BDD, seek help from a mental health professional. They can diagnose you and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.
Practice Self-Care: Engage in activities that promote self-care, such as getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly.
Challenge Negative Thoughts: Challenge negative thoughts about your appearance by questioning their validity and focusing on the positive aspects.
Engage in Exposure Therapy: Gradually expose yourself to situations that trigger your anxiety, such as going out in public without makeup or not checking your appearance in the mirror as frequently.
Surround Yourself with Support: Surround yourself with supportive friends and family members who can offer encouragement and provide a listening ear.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder is a severe mental health condition that can significantly impact a person's quality of life. However, individuals with BDD can experience significant improvement with the proper treatment and support. If you're struggling with BDD, don't hesitate to ask for help. You can overcome this disorder with time, patience, and resources and lead a happy, fulfilling life.
Dr. Belynder Walia, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Belynder Walia is a leading Psychotherapist who helps people who need a swift, effective solution to a current problem that negatively impacts their lives. She's worked with a wide variety of people, from stay-at-home carers to experts and celebrities in the public eye. Having suffered from Perinatal Anxiety, she focuses on enabling others to learn, heal and grow from pain. Belynder is the founder of Serene Lifestyles, an online and on-set psychotherapy practice at www.serenelifestyles.com. Her ground-breaking methods include a combination of Psychotherapy and Neuroplasticity to help align the THREE Brains (the head, heart, and gut). She's in many publications, including Forbes, Cosmopolitan, Harpers Bazaar, The Moment, Planet Mindful, and Thrive Global. She’s featured on the front cover of Passion Vista as one of the women to look up to 2022. Belynder is also writing her first non-fiction book, to help people radically change their minds to change their lives.
