Symptoms of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)
Core Symptoms
- Preoccupation with perceived flaws: Obsessive thoughts about minor or imagined physical defects, often focusing on face, skin, hair, or body parts.
- Repetitive behaviors: Excessive grooming, mirror checking, skin picking, makeup application, or reassurance seeking.
- Difficulty controlling habits: Seeking cosmetic procedures, comparing with others, avoiding mirrors or social interaction.
Psychological and Social Impact
- High levels of emotional distress and anxiety.
- Avoidance of social or public situations due to fear of judgment.
- Low self-esteem, isolation, depression, and even suicidal thoughts in severe cases.
Common Body Focus Areas
| Body Part | Typical Concerns |
|---|---|
| Face | Skin, acne, scars, nose shape, teeth, complexion |
| Hair | Balding, hair thinning, unwanted facial/body hair |
| Body Build | Muscle size, chest or breast size |
| Genitals | Shape, size, appearance |
| Others | Veins, posture, symmetry, blemishes |
DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria
- Preoccupation with perceived flaws in appearance.
- Repetitive behaviors or mental acts in response to concerns.
- Significant distress or impairment in daily functioning.
- Symptoms not better explained by another mental disorder.
Time Spent on Appearance Concerns
People with BDD may spend 1–8 hours a day obsessing over perceived flaws.
Consequences and Risks
- Co-occurrence with depression, anxiety, OCD, and eating disorders.
- High risk of suicidal ideation and attempts.
- Repeated but unsatisfying cosmetic interventions.
"BDD is a serious mental health disorder that can severely affect quality of life. Professional treatment can lead to significant improvement."
Source: Ichhori.com