Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is an anxiety disorder that causes a person to have a distorted view of their appearance. It makes individuals believe that something about the way they look is abnormal or ugly, even when it isn’t.

Someone with BDD may spend a lot of time looking at themselves in the mirror, analysing their appearance, or they may avoid mirrors altogether. They may also feel the need to alter their appearance with excessive make-up, cosmetic surgery, excessive exercising to change their body shape, and so on.

BDD is a serious condition that can lead to depression and, in severe cases, suicide. The nature of BDD can make outsiders view the person as vain or self-obsessed which, in turn, can prevent them from seeking help.

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