In body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), a preoccupation with one or more nonexistent or slight defects in appearance results in significant distress or impairs functioning.
Individuals typically spend hours a day worrying about their perceived defects, which may involve any body part.
Medical professionals diagnose the disorder when concerns about appearance cause significant distress or interfere with functioning.
Certain antidepressants (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or clomipramine) and cognitive-behavioural therapy often help.
Individuals with body dysmorphic disorder believe they have one or more flaws or defects in their physical appearance that in reality are nonexistent or slight.
They repeatedly do certain things (such as checking themselves in a mirror, excessively grooming themselves, or comparing themselves with others) because they are so concerned about their appearance.
Body dysmorphic disorder usually begins during adolescence and may be somewhat more common among women.
About 2% to 3% of individuals have the disorder.
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