Body dysmorphophobia (BDD) is a broad term that encompasses multiple specific fears.
Some people are afraid of becoming deformed or disfigured; others fear those who have a disfiguring condition.
Some expectant parents worry that their child will be born with a deformity.
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Common areas of concern include facial features, body symmetry, hair, and muscularity.
For example, they might become excessively concerned or distressed about a scar or mole.
Such thoughts not only intrude unexpectedly but also lead to significant distress and changes in behavior.
Your doctor will assess your symptoms and rule out other conditions before diagnosing dysmorphophobia.
These include:
Body dysmorphic disorder commonly co-occurs with other mental health conditions.
More general worries about imperfections and the fear of deformity are common, too.
A lack of understanding can increase the fear of other people’s deformities and disfigurements.
Some disfigurements are brought on by communicable diseases such as leprosy.
Although these diseases are now readily treatable, they have been stigmatized for centuries.
However, treatments are available that can relieve the symptoms of BDD.
If you develop an unhealthy obsession with your appearance or that of a loved one, seek professional assistance.
Like most phobias, dysmorphophobia responds well to a variety ofmental health treatments.
Medications
Health practitioners sometimes prescribe medications to help with symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder.
Psychotherapy and medication, however, can be effective.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Both OCD and BDD are characterized by obsessive and intrusive thoughts that are persistent and disruptive.
In both conditions, these thoughts create considerable distress and are difficult to control.
In addition to these obsessions, both BDD and OCD often lead to compulsive behaviors.
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