What is Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)?

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition where an individual is preoccupied with perceived flaws in their appearance that are often not visible to others, causing significant distress and impacting daily life.

What are common symptoms of BDD?

Common symptoms include obsessive thoughts about appearance, repetitive behaviors like mirror checking or excessive grooming, emotional distress, and social withdrawal due to appearance concerns.

How can someone with BDD get help?

Seeking help from a GP is a crucial first step, followed by specialized therapy and support groups, which are vital for managing BDD symptoms and fostering recovery.

Home / Health / Body Dysmorphia: When Appearance Obsession Takes Over

Body Dysmorphia: When Appearance Obsession Takes Over

18 Feb

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Summary

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) involves distress and interferes with daily life.
Compulsive behaviors like mirror checking or excessive makeup application are common.
Therapy and support groups are crucial for managing BDD symptoms effectively.

Body Dysmorphia: When Appearance Obsession Takes Over

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a serious mental health condition characterized by intense anxiety and preoccupation with perceived flaws in appearance. For individuals like Charlotte, this began in adolescence, leading to obsessive routines with makeup and social withdrawal, significantly impacting her ability to attend college.

Professor Viren Swami explains that BDD is more than just body dissatisfaction; it's an overwhelming obsession that narrows one's world, often accompanied by distress and repetitive behaviors. While societal perceptions may deem the perceived flaw normal, it feels profoundly wrong to the individual.