Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)

What is Body Dysmorphic Disorder?

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a mental illness in which people become distressed over the imagined or very slight defect in their appearance.

Who are the sufferers?

Perfectionists, people who are easily stressed or in low-esteem are more likely to suffer. Mostly, teenage girls and women. Some cases of teenage boys may also seen.

What causes BDD?

Precise cause is not known. But a chemical imbalance in the brain or childhood problem or unresolved conflicts may be the cause of BDD.

Which are the features that sufferers hate most?

Most common features are body shape and size, face, hair, skin, breast and private parts.

Can sufferers be treated?

Early treatment with medication and counselling can make full recovery.

What are the results of chronic cases?

Chronic cases may result in depression, anxiety, obsessive behaviour and even attempted suicide.

Case study (1) Miss M was a pretty singer. However, she became to dislike her face. She wanted a fuller one. So she injected herself with paraffin and bean oil. As a result, she got a face that was three times bigger than before. From then on, she was called "fan-faced auntie" by others.

Case study (2) Miss W hated her ears since she was six. She even wished to cut them off. But what she did was, sticking them down with tape. Fortunately, she could cover them with her long hair when she grew up.

Case study (3) Mr P, a junior college student, suffered from BDD. He thought he had an over-sized private part. Though his mother, his girlfriend and his doctor gave him support, he desperately committed suicide.

What are the signs of BDD?

1. Frequent checking of the particular parts that they care in mirrors or other shiny surfaces.

2. Frequent comparing of the appearances that they are unhappy about with those of others.

3. Camouflaging the defect with make-up, clothing, hats, scarf, hands or body position.

4. Visiting several specialists such as plastic surgeons, dermatologists or physicians without necessity.

5. Over grooming oneself.

6. Avoiding mirrors, in order, not to remind the defect.

7. Frequent touching of the part which one is obsessed with.

8. Measuring the body parts that they dislike frequently.

9. Excessive reading about the perceived defect.

10. Avoid socializing with others.

Posted by Jade Dame