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What is body dysmorphic disorder?

Body dysmorphic disorder, also known as dysmorphophobia, is a psychiatric diagnosis where a person has a lot of anxiety about certain parts of their body or appearance being defective or abnormal, even though there is no evidence that this is the case. It can be such an intense feeling that it affects the person’s daily life and functioning. Dysmorphophobia occurs in about 2% of the adult population.

Causes of body dysmorphic disorder

It is still not clear why some people develop body dysmorphic disorder, however, both genetic and environmental factors play a role. For example, values in the childhood environment may contribute, such as a significant focus on appearance. Societal messages can also influence development. You may also have experienced bullying that focused on the body in different ways. This can lead to self-criticism and fear. Individuals may also develop perfectionism and focus on details of their appearance in a compulsive way.

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Body dysmorphic disorder can significantly impact your life. It can make you withdraw from things you want to do in life, thus reducing your quality of life. Help is available.

Symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder

Having body dysmorphic disorder can be very distressing and can take up a lot of your time. For example, you may worry about the appearance of your skin, the shape of your facial parts or how much hair you have on your body. The symptoms must be present for at least six months to receive a diagnosis. Here are some common symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder:

  1. Preoccupation with small or non-existent “defects”: You may focus on small details that others may not even notice in the same way.
  2. Repetitive acts of checking: To hide their “defects” and shortcomings, individuals may check and compare themselves, or use a lot of makeup or wear clothes that hide their face, for example. They may also ask others a lot about their appearance.
  3. High anxiety: You may have high levels of anxiety related to the defect you are experiencing, which may affect your daily life.
  4. Avoidance behaviours: You may be afraid of being judged by others and avoid things and people.
  5. Seeking medical or cosmetic intervention: Some people with body dysmorphic disorder may seek medical or cosmetic intervention in an attempt to correct what they perceive as wrong, although the results rarely provide the desired relief.

Many people with body dysmorphic disorder also have other mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders or obsessive-compulsive disorder. Isolation at home is common and suicidal thoughts may develop. If you are having thoughts of suicide, call 911, call or text the National Suicide Hotline at 988, or go to your nearest emergency room. Body dysmorphic disorder can be treated.


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Treatment of body dysmorphic disorder

Psychological treatment with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is common for body dysmorphic disorder, but antidepressant medication is also often used. It is important to seek professional help if you or someone you know experiences symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder in order to get the right diagnosis and treatment. Treatment with CBT can help you:

  • Gain knowledge about what body dysmorphic disorder is and how it manifests itself in your life
  • Identify your symptoms and what you avoid in your life because of the body dysmorphic disorder
  • Work on different techniques to overcome your concerns

Seeking help can change your life

Body dysmorphic disorder is not something you need to deal with on your own. Talking to a professional therapist or psychologist can not only help you understand your condition better but also offer effective methods to overcome your concerns. You are not alone, it is okay to ask for help. On our website, we have qualified therapists and licensed psychologists who are happy to help you.


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Your next step

If you or someone you know is struggling with body dysmorphic disorder, it’s a good idea to talk to a professional therapist or psychologist. We assure you that all therapists and psychologists on our platform are qualified and that your conversation is always confidential. Don’t be afraid to take the first step.

Living with body dysmorphic disorder can be a daily struggle but there is help available. With the right support and tools, you can significantly improve your quality of life. If you are ready to take the plunge, we are here to support you. Book your first session today and start your journey towards a better future.


12 frequently asked questions about body dysmorphic disorder

What is body dysmorphic disorder?

Dysmorphophobia, or body dysmorphic disorder, is a psychiatric diagnosis where a person is very concerned that certain parts of their body or appearance are defective or abnormal, even though there is no evidence that this is the case.

How is body dysmorphic disorder diagnosed?

A diagnosis of body dysmorphic disorder is usually made by a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist through various tests and assessments. This may include questionnaires and clinical interviews.

Is body dysmorphic disorder hereditary?

There may be a genetic component but it is not the only factor. Environment, social values and upbringing also play a role.

What are the symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder?

The most common symptoms are preoccupation with the details of one’s appearance, which causes severe anxiety. Individuals may avoid people and events, and try to change their appearance.

How is body dysmorphic disorder treated?

Treatment can include medication, such as SSRIs, and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which has been shown to be particularly effective.

Is there a cure for body dysmorphic disorder?

With the right treatment, the symptoms can be managed and quality of life can be significantly improved.

Can children get body dysmorphic disorder?

Yes, it can affect children and teenagers. It is important to seek professional help as soon as possible for the best possible treatment outcome.

How common is body dysmorphic disorder?

About 2% of the population is estimated to have some form of body dysmorphic disorder.

Does body dysmorphic disorder affect my ability to work?

Yes, in severe cases, body dysmorphic disorder can lead to difficulty at work. However, it is possible to return to normal functioning with proper treatment.

How is body dysmorphic disorder different from caring about one’s appearance?

Unlike caring about how you look, body dysmorphic disorder is a major preoccupation that is compulsive and often leads to significant suffering.

Can you have other problems at the same time as having body dysmorphic disorder?

Many people with body dysmorphic disorder also have other mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders or obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Where can I go if I need help?

At Lavendla, we have experienced psychologists and therapists working with CBT who can help you feel better if you have mild to moderate symptoms. If you have more severe symptoms, you can contact your healthcare center to get a referral to a specialist psychiatrist. If you are having thoughts of suicide, call 911, call or text the National Suicide Hotline at 988, or go to your nearest emergency room.

What does treatment for body dysmorphic disorder involve?

Seeking help is a big step towards better health. It’s a positive thing to decide to take control of how you feel. Here is an overview of the steps of CBT treatment.

Step 1: An initial assessment session

The first meeting with your psychologist or therapist is an assessment to review your mental and physical health. Your therapist may questions about your life situation, feelings, thoughts and behaviours. You may also complete assessment forms.

Step 2: Goal setting

This is where you and your therapist set concrete goals for the therapy, both short and long term.
It can identify which areas of your life are most affected by your wellbeing and how you would like to change them.

Step 3: Treatment with different techniques and tools

This is the start of the actual treatment phase, which involves exercises aimed at giving you tools to overcome and work through your concerns.

Step 4: Monitoring and evaluation

Treatment is monitored regularly to see how well the therapy is working. If necessary, the treatment plan can be adjusted.

Step 5: Ending and looking ahead

As the therapy comes to an end, it is time to reflect on the progress made. You will also receive a maintenance plan for how to use the tools and strategies you have learned in the future. It is also important to monitor your results over time.

If you or someone close to you is looking for professional help, don’t hesitate to book a session with one of our licensed psychologists or therapists. Together, we can make the difficult easier.


Written by Sophia Coulter

Sophia is a registered nurse with experience in inpatient, emergency and community mental health care. She has a passion for providing emergency support for those experiencing mental health crises.