Body Dysmorphic Disorder
Has your desire to “fix” flaws in your appearance become a never-ending compulsion?
Do you see” imperfections” in your appearance that loved ones say are either minor or simply not there?
Do you compulsively check yourself in the mirror; work to cover up blemishes, scars, stretch marks or loose skin; or undergo frequent cosmetic surgery directed toward changing aspects of your appearance that make you feel self-conscious or unattractive?
When the desire to support your appearance becomes excessive or obsessive, you may be struggling with an Obsessive Compulsive spectrum disorder called, Body Dysmorphic Disorder.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder is characterized by an excessive focus on perceived imperfections and flaws in your appearance which are either non-existent or seen as minor to objective others. Because there may be a distorted manner in which body flaws are perceived, Body Dysmorphic Disorder is frequently misunderstood – and oftentimes misdiagnosed – as an eating disorder.
Whereas Anorexia, Bulimia and Binge Eating Disorder frequently include a distorted or obsessive focus on one’s body weight, shape or size, Body Dysmorphic Disorder is diagnosed when the obsessive focus on body includes factors NOT exclusively related to your body’s weight, shape or size. For instance, a distorted or excessive concern regarding the appearance of stretch marks, discolored skin or a jawline which you perceived to be grossly “misshaped” or “unattractive.”
Body Dysmorphic Disorder can occur alongside an active eating disorder in what is described as a co-occuring manner. When this is the case, both the Eating Disorder and the Body Dysmorphic Disorder must be diagnosed and treated.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder is a treatable condition which is greatly enhanced by a comprehensive evaluation by either an experienced eating disorder specialist or psychiatrist, followed by appropriate treatment which will likely include:
- Psychiatric evaluation for medication treatment
- Individual therapy, frequently utilizing a Cognitive Behavioral approach
- Individual therapy, directed toward enhancing overall self-confidence, self-esteem, and a multifaceted and positive self-identity
If you have experienced the following life events or symptoms, an assessment for potential Body Dysmorphic Disorder treatment may be helpful:
- Frequently checks Self in the mirror to assess appearance or flaws
- Frequently cancel dates or social events because of feeling self-conscious
- Frequently covers up or hides perceived “flaws”
- Excessively undergoes cosmetic procedures or surgeries
- Teased as a child, focused on aspects of appearance
- One or more parents diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder or anxiety
- Ruminating or obsessive thoughts
Living with untreated Body Dysmorphic Disorder can be painful. Thankfully, treatment can be both effective and life-changing!
For more information on Body Dysmorphic Disorder, watch Dr. Julie’s “Healthy from the Inside-Out” segment on Good Morning:
