What is an example of body dysmorphia?

What is an example of body dysmorphia?

Engaging in behaviors aimed at fixing or hiding the perceived flaw that are difficult to resist or control, such as frequently checking the mirror, grooming or skin picking. Attempting to hide perceived flaws with styling, makeup or clothes. Constantly comparing your appearance with others.

What is BDD caused by?

The cause of body dysmorphic disorder is thought to be a combination of environmental, psychological, and biological factors. Bullying or teasing may create or foster the feelings of inadequacy, shame, and fear of ridicule.

Can social media cause body dysmorphia?

While social media doesn’t cause BDD, it can amplify the condition. You might constantly take and post selfies, then constantly scrutinize and criticize them. If a person truly has body dysmorphic disorder, plastic surgery will actually make BDD worse, according to Argumedo.

What it’s like living with body dysmorphia?

While most people are somewhat bothered by physical imperfections, those who suffer from body dysmorphic disorder spend hours a day obsessing over real or imagined flaws and take excessive and sometimes drastic measures to hide their perceived flaws from others.

How to overcome body dysmorphia?

Physical activity. Being active will help you feel better about yourself. Exercise of any kind releases endorphins.

Positive affirmations. There are plenty of great things about positive affirmations. A lot of people avoid them at…

Have a plan of action. When BDD starts kicking in, have a plan to stop it in its tracks.

What is body dysmorphia actually feels like?

Body dysmorphic disorder can feel like a ‘bully in your brain’ For a person with BDD, a simple mirror in a bathroom or in their home can become a dangerous weapon, something they stand in front of to pick apart their appearance. “When you’re dealing with body dysmorphic disorder, you have a bully in your brain,” said Stern.

How to help someone with body dysmorphic disorder?

Work on steering conversations away from their appearance or what they see as flaws.

Avoid trying to make someone feel better by talking about your own insecurities or flaws.

Provide them with space to talk freely and openly with you about their feelings.

How to help someone with body dysmorphia?

You should try to accept their feelings.

Be a good listener.

Help them seek treatment and support.

Support them in their self-help practices.

Offer practical support.

Acknowledge small wins.

Learn what triggers compulsive behaviours.

Try not to get involved into debates regarding appearance issues and encourage people to do the same.