Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a silent struggle that affects many individuals, taking body image issues to extreme levels and impacting mental health and daily life. In this article, we will delve into the distorted perception of self that comes with BDD, the constant need for reassurance, the social isolation and avoidance it can cause, and the negative impact it has on mental health.
The Distorted Perception of Self
Body Dysmorphic Disorder Definition
a mental condition characterized by extreme preoccupation with self-perceived defects in the appearance of the body, leading to distress and impairment of social and occupational functioning.
Individuals with Body Dysmorphic Disorder often develop a distorted perception of self, seeing themselves as fundamentally flawed or unattractive despite evidence to the contrary. This skewed view can lead to obsessive thoughts about perceived flaws and a constant need for reassurance from others to validate their self-worth and appearance.
Indications of BDD:
worry a lot about a specific area of your body (particularly your face)
spend a lot of time comparing your looks with other people's
look at yourself in mirrors a lot or avoid mirrors altogether
go to a lot of effort to conceal flaws – for example, by spending a long time combing your hair, applying make-up or choosing clothes
pick at your skin to make it "smooth"
The Constant Need for Reassurance
Individuals with Body Dysmorphic Disorder often find themselves trapped in a cycle of seeking validation and reassurance from others. This constant need for approval stems from their distorted perception of self, where perceived flaws overshadow any positive attributes. Whether it's asking friends for reassurance on their appearance or seeking constant feedback on their body, those with BDD rely heavily on others to feel a sense of worth and acceptance. This ongoing quest for reassurance can further exacerbate their obsession with body image, feeding into a vicious cycle of self-doubt and insecurity. The struggle for validation can become all-consuming, impacting every aspect of their daily lives and relationships.
If you are worried about what to say or not to say it's always safest to avoid any comment on weight or image. Even comments such as "you look good" or "you look healthy" can be easily distorted or miscommunicated by someone who struggles with their image. If you are concerned about someone who you suspect may have BDD it's always best to seek professional advice via a helpline or by speaking to your GP.
Social Media and BDD
Social media's influence on body image goes beyond just the appearance of photos on our feeds. Understanding how the platform affects our perceptions of ourselves is crucial in recognizing the detrimental impact it can have on our mental health. Seeking validation through social media likes and comments is a common practice among users, especially when it comes to body image-related content.
The number of likes and positive comments on a post can often dictate how we perceive our own worth and attractiveness. In a digital world where approval is measured by virtual "thumbs up" and words of admiration, it's easy to fall into the trap of seeking validation from others in order to feel good about ourselves.
We are often encouraged to use filters to enhance our photos which can increase mistrust but also leave us with feelings of insecurity or imperfection. The more likes and positive comments we receive, the more validated and accepted we feel. On the flip side, a lack of likes or negative comments can quickly erode our self-esteem and leave us feeling inadequate. This dependency on external validation can contribute to a distorted self-image and feelings of low self-worth.
Discovery Journal has made sure to draw attention to the impacts of social media by featuring a section in our teen and neurodiverse journals, for which the user is asked to rate their social media usage and platforms out of 10 and choose one emotive word to explain their feeling after using it.
We often don't realise the negative feelings that occur from social media, but by keeping a simple record we can easily see if any patterns are occurring. Sometimes seeing it all in black and white gives us clarity we may not otherwise have had.
The Negative Impact on Mental Health
The constant need for validation and reassurance from others can lead to feelings of isolation and avoidance, making it difficult to connect with others on a deeper level and reaching out for help can be more difficult.
This can result in a sense of loneliness and alienation, further exacerbating the symptoms of BDD. BDD may be accompanied by another mental illness such as anxiety, depression or OCD, it's important to understand where these insecurities are occurring and whether any other mental illnesses are feeding these feelings or symptoms of BDD. The relentless quest for approval can chip away at one's self-esteem and contribute to a downward spiral of negative thoughts and emotions. Those affected by BDD must seek professional help and support to break free from this harmful cycle.
In some cases, BDD can develop into a serious eating disorder which can be extremely detrimental and life-threatening. The sooner an individual can recognise their symptoms of BDD the higher the chances of recovery will be and the sooner professional intervention can occur.
In an effort to improve confidence and overall mental well-being when it comes to body image, Discovery Journal has released a bespoke 12-pack of cards, named Evolution. These cards are expertly designed to draw attention to how we feel about ourselves and our bodies, with the aim of improving mindset and body confidence.
Bodies change over time and this can impact how we feel about ourselves, so these cards serve as a regular reminder to check in with yourself and how you are feeling both mentally and physically. They will bring your attention to your self-worth and actively reinforce more positive thoughts and feelings.
BDD Treatment Methods:
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
This form of talk therapy helps you understand the connections between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours and equips you with practical skills to navigate them. You may even have access to self-help materials, like books, journals or computer programs, to supplement your therapy. Best of all, CBT is often recommended before turning to medication, depending on the severity of symptoms. Plus, you can receive treatment through a variety of mediums: phone, video, or face-to-face with a therapist, either individually or in a group.
The aim of CBT for BDD is to help you feel less anxious about your body by:
Helping you change your attitude to body image and physical appearance
Exploring your worries about your perceived physical flaw(s)
Reducing your need to carry out compulsive behaviours
Person Led/ Integrative Therapy
Integrative therapy focuses on you, not the counsellor. It's about empowering you to reach your full potential by accepting and valuing yourself, while also being honest and transparent. Our goal is to help you explore the root of your problems and guide you towards a more open and fulfilling life. But it doesn't stop there. Our approach is designed to enhance all aspects of your well-being - mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual.
No matter who you are, integrative therapy has something to offer. Many private therapists practice integrative therapy and a counsellor will often use a mixture of different methods which they feel is best suited to benefit you.
Medication
If you're struggling with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), you may have explored cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) as a potential treatment along with other therapies. However, if therapy alone is not providing the results you desire, your doctor may also prescribe antidepressants.
Antidepressants, specifically selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can be a helpful addition to your treatment plan. These medications work to reduce obsessive thoughts and behaviours associated with BDD.
While SSRIs can be effective, it's important to note that they may cause unpleasant side effects for some. It's always a good idea to discuss this with your doctor before starting any medication. Additionally, be sure to educate yourself on the necessary steps to take before beginning medication.
In some cases, a first course of SSRIs and intensive CBT may not be enough to alleviate BDD symptoms and alternative methods will need to be explored.
Specialist services for BDD
If conventional treatments fall short, your primary care physician (GP) may recommend seeking specialized assistance. This could involve community-based services for mental and social care, where a dedicated community mental health team (CMHT) will conduct a comprehensive evaluation. Together, you and the CMHT will devise a personalized care plan, which may include resources from programs that specialize in body dysmorphic disorder (BDD).
Unfortunately, access to these specialized services is not always available in every region, so you may have to travel outside of your local area. Additionally, the wait times for these services can be quite lengthy.
What other treatments are there?
As individuals, we each have unique needs and what works for one may not work for another. That's why it's important to explore alternative treatments and self-care techniques that may be more effective for your specific case of BDD. These options can be used on their own or in conjunction with traditional treatments for a personalized approach to managing BDD.
The Body Dysmorphic Disorder Foundation also provides further information about treatments for BDD on its website.
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