We all have those moments when we look in the mirror and find fault all too easily with our reflection. For most of us, we can vow to lose a little weight or wear a different outfit to make us feel more confident, but for some people, the preoccupation with their appearance and, specifically, their body size, can be all-consuming.
What is Body Dysmorphic Disorder?
People suffering from body dysmorphic disorder, also known as BDD, experience an overwhelming and distressing amount of worry and dislike of their body, according to the NHS. While it’s not exactly the same as an eating disorder, BDD can occasionally mean that people are highly preoccupied with their weight.
However, it can also relate to height, build or muscle size – or even something more specific, such as focusing on their nose and what they feel is wrong with it.
Unfortunately, BDD can sometimes be accompanied by another mental health condition, for example, OCD or an eating disorder. People are also slightly more likely to be affected if they were bullied about their appearance as a child.
What are the common symptoms?
Commonly, sufferers of this condition will spend more than an average amount of time in front of the mirror, analysing their appearance and trying to change it. Some sufferers, however, go the other way and avoid mirrors altogether, since they feel repelled by their own appearance.
They may engage in behaviours which try to conceal what they feel is wrong, for example, putting on a lot of make-up to cover their skin.
How can I support those with BDD?
If you’re supporting someone with BDD, it is useful to have a good working knowledge of this and other mental health conditions. For mental health training courses Blackpool, consider specialist providers such as https://www.tidaltraining.co.uk/mental-health-training-courses/blackpool/.
It can be well worth signposting someone who you feel is struggling with this condition to their GP, since there are a number of treatments which may help considerably, including CBT and medication.
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