How do you deal with crippling body dysmorphia?

How do you deal with crippling body dysmorphia?

The most common treatment plan for body dysmorphic disorder is a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been found to be the most effective at treating BDD and antidepressant medications have also been shown to help individuals coping with this disorder.

What is crippling body dysmorphia?

Body dysmorphic disorder is a mental health disorder in which you can’t stop thinking about one or more perceived defects or flaws in your appearance — a flaw that appears minor or can’t be seen by others. But you may feel so embarrassed, ashamed and anxious that you may avoid many social situations.

Is body dysmorphia a serious mental illness?

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental illness. People who have this illness constantly worry about the way they look. They may believe an inconspicuous or non-existent physical attribute is a serious defect.

What happens when you have body dysmorphic disorder?

Many individuals with body dysmorphic disorder are unable to attend school, hold a job, or even engage in relationships. Studies have found that more than 40\% of individuals with BDD had been psychiatrically hospitalized [4]. Perhaps your fixation over your perceived body image flaws has become intensely destructive in your own life.

Why is it so hard to cope with BDD?

It is nearly impossible to cope with BDD if you are not aware of the precise content of your obsessive thoughts. This is because if these thoughts are not examined and changed, they will carry on despite behavioral changes you are able to make. “If people see the real me, then they will be repulsed.”

Can you have cosmetic surgery if you have body dysmorphic disorder?

Some people with body dysmorphic disorder seek cosmetic surgery to ‘correct’ an actual or perceived physical flaw. Medical experts are divided on the ethics of performing cosmetic surgery under these circumstances (sometimes called ‘non-therapeutic mutilation’ or extreme body modification).

How are medications used to treat body dysmorphic disorder?

Generally, medications are used in combination with psychotherapy. Some people with body dysmorphic disorder seek cosmetic surgery to ‘correct’ an actual or perceived physical flaw.