It’s completely normal to be conscious of your body image every once in a while. Perhaps you’re concerned that the hairdresser cut your hair too short. Or, that your makeup doesn’t match your skin tone as well as it used to. Such minor insecurities aren’t unusual.
In some cases, though, the negative perception of your body can turn into an obsession. The thought that you have a major flaw preys on your mind so much that it interferes with your everyday life. If this happens, it means your insecurities have escalated to body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). Read on to learn about BDD- what it is and possible treatment solutions.
What Is Body Dysmorphic Disorder?
Also known as body dysmorphia, this is a psychological illness that causes an individual to become overly concerned with their appearance.
It’s no secret that we all have features and characteristics that distinguish us from others. But with BDD, the person is convinced that one or more of these features are flaws.
And as a result, they spend ridiculous amounts of time trying to change their appearance. Left untreated, this condition can lead to self-harming behavior or suicidal thoughts.
Treatment for Body Dysmorphic Disorder?
If you’re suffering from BDD, there are several treatment options available. The most common ones are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and antidepressants.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
As implied in the title, this type of therapy is meant to change your thinking and behavioral patterns.
In the case of body dysmorphic disorder, CBT will help you identify the factors that trigger the feelings of insecurity. You will also learn how to think differently and subsequently, change your habits.
With the help of your therapist, you’ll come with positive body-related goals and work on achieving them within a specified time frame.
One technique that therapists use to treat BDD is exposure and response prevention (ERP). It entails exposing yourself to scenarios that would typically make you obsess over your appearance. Your psychiatrist will train you on how to manage those negative feelings and thoughts.
Antidepressants
In some cases, your therapist may prescribe some antidepressants called Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). The most commonly prescribed SSRI for body dysmorphic disorder is fluoxetine.
If you choose the route of antidepressants, you’ll want to be patient. It can take up to three months for the antidepressants to be effective.
While antidepressants and CBT are great for treating BDD, you may also want to consider joining a support group. Here, you’ll receive heaps of advice and information regarding the condition. More importantly, you’ll get to know how different treatments work for different people.
Conclusion
There’s nothing wrong with being a little insecure about your body image. But, you should not let these insecurities disrupt your day-to-day life. “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.” (Genesis 1:27)
If you find yourself obsessed with how you look or constantly looking for ways to change it, you’re likely suffering from body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). Thankfully, the symptoms of this mental condition can be managed and treated using antidepressants and cognitive behavioral therapy.
