"People with BDD are not simply vain – they believe themselves to be ugly or defective."
*What is body dysmorphic disorder?*
BDD is a mental health problem related to body image, in which an individual has a preoccupation with one or more perceived or slight defects in his or her appearance. It is only diagnosed if the preoccupation causes significant distress, disrupts daily functioning or both. Despite understanding that others believe their appearance to be ‘normal’, their perception of ugliness is very real to the sufferer of BDD. It is important to note that people with BDD are not simply vain – they believe themselves to be ugly or defective. They tend to be very secretive and reluctant to seek help because they are afraid others will think them vain or self-obsessed. The extent of BDD is unknown, due to the fact that many people who suffer from it are too ashamed to reveal their problem. It is also often commonly missed by doctors, a problem in those with multiple mental health problems and often misdiagnosed or not recognised. However, it is estimated that between 1 – 5% of the population is affected by BDD at any time.
*What causes body dysmorphic disorder?*
There has been very little research into BDD. There are two different main theories – one biological and the other psychological. The biological explanation suggests that some people are more likely to develop BDD because of their genetic make-up. Certain stresses or life events, such as teasing or abuse, may trigger the condition. Once developed, there may be a chemical imbalance of serotonin or other chemicals in the brain. The psychological explanation relates BDD to low self-esteem and the way a person judges themselves almost exclusively by their appearance. Once the disorder has developed, it is then maintained by excessive self-focused attention and behaviour, such as checking the perceived defect, making comparisons with other people, avoiding social situations and seeking reassurance.
Those suffering from BDD are generally first given self-help materials and offered cognitive behaviour therapy. The aim of CBT is to help a personal challenge the thoughts, images, beliefs and attitudes (their cognitive processes) that have negative effects on their feelings and behaviour. The focal points of CBT for people with BDD are attitudes and beliefs about physical appearance in general and the person’s perceived defect in particular. If this is not successful, more intensive CBT and/or SSRI antidepressants may be offered.
*Where can I get information/find help?*
UK:
Anxiety UK – http://www.anxietyuk.org.uk/ – The leading UK charity dealing with anxiety and phobias
British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP) – http://www.babcp.com/ – The BABCP is the leading organisation for CBT in the UK; its membership includes nurses, counsellors, psychologists and trainees, and it is the only organisation that provides accreditation for CBT therapists. The website provides a listing of CBT therapists.
The BDD Foundation – http://www.thebddfoundation.org/ – The BDD Foundation aims to increase awareness and understanding of BDD.
British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) – http://www.bacp.co.uk/ – Use the website to search online for a therapist
Centre for Anxiety Disorders and Trauma – psychology.iop.kcl.ac.uk/cadat/ - A national specialist clinic and residential unit jointly run by the Specialist Director of the South London and Maudsley Trust and the Institute of Psychiatry
First Steps to Freedom – http://www.first-steps.org/ – A charity that aims to give practical help to people with obsessions, compulsions and phobias. Services include a telephone helpline, telephone self-help groups and telephone counselling and befriending.
National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) – http://www.nice.org.uk/ – Independent organisation providing guidance on the promotion of good health and the treatment of ill health. Information for patience is available from the website in addition to full NICE guidance.
OCD Action – http://www.ocdaction.org.uk/ – The leading national charity focused on obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, including BDD. Services include self-help groups and an online discussion forum.
US:
BDD Central – http://www.bddcentral.com/ – A comprehensive website for BDD, including discussion forums and an online support group
Mayo Clinic - http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/body-dysmorphic-disorder/ds00559 - Comprehensive guide to body dysmorphic disorder
Teens Health from Nemours - http://kidshealth.org/teen/your_mind/body_image/body_image_problem.html - Guide to body dysmorphic disorder specifically targeted to teens
The BDD Foundation – http://www.thebddfoundation.org/ – The BDD Foundation aims to increase awareness and understanding of BDD.
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Purchased at Summer of Love:
Baiastice - Trasparenze
*LC* E Gypsy Earrings - color change hud
Not Purchased at Summer of Love:
Truth - Mena in Champagne
Curio - Elf
Storm Schmooz - Carat 12 Stilettos
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