Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD): Characteristics, Roots, and Remedies

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD): Manifestations, origins, and remedies

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), a mental health condition causing excessive worry about a perceived flaw in physical appearance, affects 0.7-4.0% of people in the United States, with individuals aged between 15-30 being most likely to develop it [1]. The mainstay treatments for BDD involve Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) combined with pharmacotherapy, supplemented by group support and holistic methods as appropriate to each patient's needs [1][2][4].

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a treatment option for BDD. It aims to change the way a person behaves by challenging their beliefs and thinking [4]. This therapy helps individuals identify and change distorted beliefs about their appearance and reduce compulsive behaviors related to these concerns [1]. By understanding the underlying factors contributing to BDD and developing healthier coping mechanisms, CBT empowers patients to manage their symptoms more effectively [4].

Pharmacological therapy, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are often prescribed to help manage symptoms, especially obsessive-compulsive features and anxiety linked to BDD [4]. SSRIs, a type of antidepressant medication, can help relieve the symptoms of BDD in at least half of the people who use them [4].

Group Therapy and Family Therapy can provide social support, shared understanding, and strengthen recovery through communal and relational resources [2][1]. Holistic Therapies, such as yoga and meditation, may be integrated into treatment plans to improve emotional resilience and self-awareness, supporting overall well-being alongside traditional therapies [1].

Treatment may occur in inpatient or outpatient settings depending on severity and individual needs. Inpatient rehab offers medical supervision and intensive treatment, while outpatient rehab allows for flexible scheduling but may have lower success rates [2]. Aftercare, including ongoing support and group therapy, is crucial to maintain treatment gains and manage post-treatment challenges effectively [1].

Cosmetic procedures are generally discouraged as they do not address the underlying disorder, and patients rarely feel satisfied with results. Instead, behavioural and medication therapies are prioritized [4]. Correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help resolve the underlying issues that are causing BDD, relieve symptoms, and prevent unnecessary and possibly risky surgery [4].

Online CBT courses may be more affordable than face-to-face counseling, making treatment more accessible for some individuals [1]. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS or TMS), a new technique that may help treat BDD, involves stimulating specific parts of the brain using electromagnetic fields [1].

People who identify as LGBTQ+ are more likely to report symptoms of BDD than people of heterosexual orientation [1]. Bullying, rejection, and other stressors may increase the risk of BDD in the LGBTQ+ youth community [1]. A BDD questionnaire can help identify people who may be seeking physical changes for the wrong reasons [1].

Cosmetic surgeons are urged to be aware of the signs of BDD and encourage patients to see a doctor or psychiatrist instead of agreeing to surgery immediately [4]. A correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by BDD.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a treatment option for Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), aims to change a person's beliefs and thinking, helping them identify and change distorted beliefs about their appearance and reduce compulsive behaviors [1][4].
Group Therapy and Family Therapy provide social support, shared understanding, and strengthen recovery for individuals with BDD through communal and relational resources [2][1].
Individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ are more likely to report symptoms of BDD than people of heterosexual orientation, and bullying, rejection, and other stressors may increase the risk of BDD in the LGBTQ+ youth community [1].
Correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment, such as CBT and pharmacotherapy, can help resolve the underlying issues that are causing BDD, relieve symptoms, and prevent unnecessary surgeries [4].
Online CBT courses may make mental health treatment more accessible for some individuals, and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS or TMS) is a new technique that may help treat BDD [1].