Having body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) can affect every aspect of your life, from family relationships and work to your social life. If you’re struggling with body dysmorphia, you may find it difficult to be around other people, as you try to hide your appearance from them.
Friends and family may try to reassure you that your view of yourself is not how you really look, or how they see you. But when you have BDD that’s unlikely to be enough to allay your fears. It’s important to get help, as your symptoms of body dysmorphia can get better with the right treatment.
CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) is the recommended treatment for body dysmorphia for anyone with mild symptoms. This kind of ‘talking therapy’ has been shown to be one of the most effective approaches. You can practise CBT with the help of a trained therapist or counsellor, or start with an online self-help course. CBT will help you learn what triggers your body dysmorphic disorder symptoms and develop different ways to think about and manage your habits.
If your symptoms are considered more severe, you may also need to take an antidepressant. You may find it helpful to join a body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) support group too.