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Who is most likely to get body dysmorphic disorder?
BDD most often develops in adolescents and teens, and research shows that it affects men and women almost equally. In the United States, BDD occurs in about 2.5\% in males, and in 2.2 \% of females. BDD often begins to occur in adolescents 12-13 years of age (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
What is body dysmorphic disorder 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 self harm cause dysmorphia?
It affects people of any age but is most prevalent in teenagers and young adults, and although common, it frequently goes unrecognised or misdiagnosed. Without help, a young person with Body Dysmorphic Disorder may be at risk of self-harm and suicidal ideation. In desperation, they may also resort to self-surgery.
What happens if BDD is left untreated?
If left untreated or unaddressed, Body Dysmorphic Disorder can lead to serious consequences, including suicidal ideations and attempts, increased anxiety and depression, and eating disorders. Body dysmorphic disorder can cause a severe impairment in overall quality of life, making daily activities difficult.
Is BDD real?
Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a serious mental illness. This is a psychiatric disorder that is related to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It most commonly begins around puberty, and it affects both men and women.
Do you suffer from body dysmorphic disorder?
But if you find yourself obsessing over your appearance, honing in on what you believe are flaws or things that need to be “fixed,” you might be suffering from body dysmorphic disorder. Commonly known as body dysmorphia, or BDD, this a mental health issue that is often misunderstood and rarely discussed.
What are the causes of muscle dysmorphia?
Also, not all sufferers of muscle dysmorphia have disordered eating. The specific causes of body dysmorphic disorder are unknown. Like most other mental disorders, it is the result of a variety of factors. These include irregularities in brain structure, genetics, and life experiences.
How is body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) treated?
Treatment for body dysmorphic disorder includes both individual and group therapy as well as medication. If your symptoms are milder, they may improve from either treatment alone, but therapy and medication work together for faster results. This is especially true if you or your loved one is having suicidal thoughts.
Body dysmorphic disorder is related to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), an anxiety disorder. A person with OCD has upsetting thoughts they can’t control (obsessions). These thoughts result in a need to do certain activities or routines (compulsions).