Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Diagnosis of Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is diagnosed through a careful evaluation by a healthcare professional. Diagnosis typically involves:

• Psychological Evaluation:

  • Assesses risk factors, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to negative self-image.

• Personal, Social, Family, and Medical History:

  • Helps identify contributing factors and patterns that may influence symptoms.

• Referral to a Mental Health Professional:

  • Your healthcare provider may recommend further assessment by a psychologist or psychiatrist to confirm the diagnosis.

Signs and Symptoms

Signs of body dysmorphic disorder often include:

• Preoccupation with perceived flaws in appearance that are minor or not observable to others.

• Repetitive behaviors such as mirror checking, excessive grooming, or seeking reassurance.

• Avoidance of social situations due to body image concerns.

Treatment for Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Treatment usually combines cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medications.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

• Challenge Negative Thoughts: Learn flexible ways of thinking to reduce negative body image beliefs.

• Address Compulsive Behaviors: Reduce mirror checking, reassurance seeking, or excess use of medical services.

• Improve Coping Skills: Engage in social activities and healthy supports to reduce avoidance.

• Personalized Goals: Therapy is tailored to individual needs, and family involvement can be especially helpful for teenagers.

Medications

• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs):

  • Often prescribed because BDD may involve serotonin imbalance.

  • Help control negative thoughts and repetitive behaviors.

• Other Medications:

  • May be added depending on the individual’s symptoms and response to treatment.

Hospitalization

• Recommended only in severe cases where daily functioning is impaired or there is immediate risk of self-harm.

• Provides intensive psychiatric care to stabilize symptoms.