Most people may have concerns about the appearance of their bodies at one point or another. They may think they are overweight, have too much body hair, or their muscles are not toned enough. When someone starts to obsess about their concerns and flaws, and it is ongoing, they may have body dysmorphic disorder.
What Is Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)?
Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a type of mental health disorder that is related to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It is where someone has negative views about their physical appearance. Their thoughts and feelings related to these flaws begin to consume them and affect their actions and thoughts. Eventually, without BDD treatment, the effects can have negative impacts on one’s overall quality of life and their physical and mental well-being.
How Common Is Body Dysmorphic Disorder?
The occurrence of BDD ranges from 1.7% to 2.9%, which means between 5 and 10 million people have this condition. Body dysmorphic disorder is more common in women, with a prevalence of around 60% compared to 40% in men. BDD is about as common as OCD.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder Symptoms
Body dysmorphic disorder symptoms will vary from one person to the next based on the severity of their condition, which could include:
- Being obsessed and preoccupied with a flaw in one’s appearance that others do not seem to notice or that is minor.
- Thinking that others are viewing your appearance negatively or are making fun of your body.
- Attempting to hide flaws with clothing, makeup, or changes to one’s appearance, like tanning or coloring your hair.
- Comparing your appearance with the appearance of others.
- Having a strong belief that your appearance is flawed, which makes you feel like you are deformed or ugly.
- Getting cosmetic surgery to attempt to correct flaws, only to be let down and believe the flaws are still there.
- Avoiding social situations where you believe your appearance will be judged negatively.
- Seeking reassurance from others about your appearance.
- Constantly checking your appearance in the mirror.
- Picking at your skin, hair, or a specific body area where you perceive is flawed.
- Having thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
- Experiencing anxiety, fear, or a panic attack because you believe others are talking about your appearance.
- Compulsive grooming behaviors to address the obsessions about the perceived flaws, which may bring short-term relief.
- Turning to alcohol or other substances as an unhealthy coping mechanism to try to quiet the obsessions about your flaws.
What Is the Cause of Body Dysmorphic Disorder?
The exact causes of BDD are not fully understood. However, there are several underlying factors that could contribute to the development of this mental health disorder, including:
- Having OCD: People with OCD can develop BDD, and many people with BDD also have co-occurring OCD since the two conditions are related.
- Family history: People with a family history of OCD or BDD have a higher risk of developing it themselves.
- Social media and societal influences: Social media, pop culture, and fashion all have perceived standards about one’s appearance and what is considered normal. Obsessing over these things can lead to the development of BDD.
- History of bullying, abuse, or neglect in childhood: The symptoms of BDD generally start during puberty but may not appear until young adulthood. The effects of bullying, being picked on about one’s appearance, experiencing neglect, or being abused can increase the risk of developing BDD.
- Brain structure and functioning: There are specific brain areas that are different when someone has BDD or OCD, and some of the regions are overly active, making it difficult to control their behaviors, actions, and thoughts.
What Are the Complications of Body Dysmorphic Disorder?
People with body dysmorphic disorder are at risk of other potential complications, which often include having co-occurring conditions, such as:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- ODC
- Eating disorders
- Alcohol and substance use disorders
Additionally, people with BDD have a higher risk of inflicting self-harm or attempting suicide.
How Is Body Dysmorphic Disorder Diagnosed?
Diagnosing BDD involves a thorough evaluation by a mental health professional, usually a psychiatrist. During the evaluation, the psychiatrist will ask about your symptoms, thoughts, and behavioral patterns, family history, medical history, and lifestyle.
They may order different types of lab work, such as blood tests, to rule out any potential underlying medical conditions. They will also use special screening tools, which are usually different questionnaires with various scoring systems, to determine if you fit within the criteria for this condition.
How to Help Someone With Body Dysmorphic Disorder
Most people with BDD do not even realize they have this condition. It can take between 10 and 15 years before the symptoms worsen enough that they will seek professional help. If you notice a friend or family member is exhibiting symptoms of BDD and you want to help, you should:
- Listen when they talk to you: It can be challenging for someone to share their feelings about concerns over their appearance. They can feel vulnerable, scared, or afraid you will make fun of them. If they open up to you, listen to them without judgment.
- Don’t be dismissive: Some people can be dismissive when someone perceives they have flaws. They could tell them it’s not that big of a deal or to just get over it. These responses can negatively impact the person with BDD further. Instead, ask them leading questions about why this is such a concern to them.
- Encourage them to seek professional care: Make suggestions that they should consider seeing a mental health professional to find out precisely why they feel like they do. You could offer to go along with them to their initial consultation and future appointments to provide support. You could also help them schedule their appointments.
- Educate yourself about BDD: Many resources are available that can help you learn more about BDD and how you can help someone with this condition. You can even see a mental health professional yourself and express your concerns and worries about your friend or loved one to get professional advice.
Can Body Dysmorphic Disorder Be Prevented?
BDD cannot be prevented because it is not fully understood what causes this mental health disorder. However, if you start to exhibit symptoms of this condition, you can seek help from a mental health professional.
By taking steps to learn how to manage your condition effectively, you can lead an active and productive life with minimal impact from your BDD. Treatment for BDD often involves a combination of evidence-based and holistic therapies and medication management personalized to fit your unique needs.
Contact Montare Behavioral Health to Treat Body Dysmorphic Disorder in Arizona or California
If you are judging your physical appearance harshly or are obsessing over specific areas of your body you believe are flawed, you could have BDD. At Montare Behavioral Health, our caring and supportive team of mental health professionals can help diagnose and treat body dysmorphic disorder. Our treatment centers in Arizona and California provide comprehensive and personalized care. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation and start the journey to improved mental health and well-being.
Published: 6/24/2025