
BODY DYSMORPHIC DISORDER (BDD)
UNDERSTANDING BDD
What is Body Dysmorphic Disorder?
Body Dysmorphic Disorder is a preoccupation with one or more perceived imperfections in physical appearance that are usually either unnoticeable or seem insignificant to others. Individuals with BDD often fear that they are unattractive and worry about being socially rejected. Common rituals include checking of specific body parts, excessive weighing, ritualized eating, comparing appearance to others, and reassurance seeking.
Common Characteristics of BDD Include:
Repeatedly checking or fixating on the perceived flaw(s) in the mirror
Excessive grooming rituals
Feeling compelled to enhance appearance through surgery
Trying to camouflage insecurities with styling, makeup, clothing, etc.
Avoiding social situations due to appearance concerns
Comparing one's appearance obsessively to others
Questioning others directly or indirectly about appearance
Effective Treatment for BDD
This preoccupation with imagined defects causes significant emotional distress and interferes with daily functioning in work, social life, and relationships. While sufferers may briefly feel relief from compulsive behaviors, the anxiety quickly returns.
BDD impacts both males and females across socioeconomic, racial, and ethnic backgrounds. With specialized treatment, it is possible to overcome body image distortions. At our practice, we provide evidence-based care utilizing therapeutic approaches proven effective for body dysmorphic disorder, including:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps individuals identify patterns of thinking often related to BDD, such as all-or-nothing thinking, mind reading, and intolerance of uncertainty. Interventions such as ERP, cost-benefit analysis, externalization of voices, and Socratic questioning are implemented in the treatment process.
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
ERP approach entails individuals willingly confronting the very triggers and thoughts that provoke anxiety without engaging in rituals. Through consistent practice of exposure exercises, individuals will learn how to interact with their inner experiences and find new ways to cope with uncertainties. The goal is to help individuals live a fulfilling, values-based life while embracing uncertainty.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on cultivating psychological flexibility. ACT helps individuals develop a different relationship with difficult thoughts and make room for unpleasant feelings, and learn new ways to interact with them while making values-based choices in life.
Mindfulness Practices
Practicing mindfulness can help individuals develop a different relationship with their mind and learn how to observe their thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations without getting caught up in ideas and opinions. Being mindful means observing our inner experience non-judgmentally while staying present with what we have chosen to focus on.