Dysmorphophobia – the fight against one’s own image

Dysmorphophobia, also known as body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), is a difficult experience that affects many people around the world.

In this article, we will discuss what body dysmorphia is, its symptoms, causes and available treatments. If you suffer from this disorder or know someone who struggles with body dysmorphia, this article may be helpful to you.

Dysmorphophobia – what is it?

Body dysmorphic disorder, also called body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), is a mental disorder that focuses on obsessive thinking about body imperfections that may actually be invisible or small. People suffering from BDD often see their bodies as deformed or unattractive, which leads to serious emotional and social problems.

Dysmorphophobia – symptoms

Symptoms of body dysmorphia can vary, but typically include the following features:

• Excessive focus on body appearance, often for many hours a day.
• Low self-esteem due to the belief that you are unattractive.
• Avoiding social situations for fear of being judged by others.
• Attempting to hide perceived body defects by using makeup, clothes, or other means.
• Excessive control over diet and exercise to improve appearance.

These symptoms can lead to significant psychological distress and impact the daily life, social relationships, and overall quality of life of a person with BDD.

Causes of dysmorphophobia

The causes of body dysmorphia are complex and may include both genetic and environmental factors. Some potential causes and risk factors include:

• Family history of mental disorders, including BDD.
• Experiencing trauma or experiencing difficult life situations.
• The influence of social media and the beauty standards promoted by the media.
• Neurochemical disorders, such as an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain.

It is worth understanding that body dysmorphia is a mental illness, not an expression of selfishness or an attempt at manipulation. People suffering from BDD often experience great mental distress that requires support and treatment.

Dysmorphophobia – treatment

Treating dysmorphophobia can be difficult, but there are effective ways to help people affected by this disorder. First, it is important to have BDD recognized and diagnosed by a qualified professional such as a psychotherapist or psychiatrist.

Treatments for body dysmorphia may include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps change thoughts and behaviors related to obsessive thinking about appearance.
• Drug treatment, such as anti-anxiety medications or antidepressants, which may help control symptoms.
• Social support and group therapy to help people with BDD share their experiences and learn coping strategies.

It is important for people suffering from BDD to receive support from their loved ones and those around them. The psychological distress that accompanies body dysmorphia can be enormous, and family and friend support can be crucial to the recovery process.

Your suggestions

If you suspect that someone around you suffers from body dysmorphia, try to be understanding and supportive. Encourage the person to consult a professional and provide emotional support.

Recommended articles

If you are interested in the topic of body dysmorphia and would like to learn more, we recommend that you read other articles and sources of information on this topic. Knowledge about this topic can help understand this difficult disorder and improve the quality of life of people affected by BDD.

Dysmorphophobia is a serious mental disorder that requires professional help and support. Recognition, treatment and understanding of this disorder are crucial to improving the lives of people affected by dysmorphophobia. Let’s be empathetic and ready to provide support to those who need it.