Modern society places tremendous pressure on the perfection of physical appearance, which often leads to serious consequences for our mental health. For many women, daily confrontations with idealized beauty standards can cause anxiety, fear and discomfort about their own bodies. One of the most drastic manifestations of this phenomenon is dysmorphophobia, or obsessive dislike of one’s own appearance, which can lead to serious mental and social disorders.
Learn more about dysmorphophobia and learn about effective treatments for this complex disorder.
Dysmorphophobia, obsession with appearance – what is it?
Dysmorphophobia, also known as body dysmorphia, is a mental disorder characterized by an obsessive dislike of one’s own appearance. People suffering from the aforementioned disorder often have a belief that they are horrible, ugly or have some physical defect, despite the lack of actual evidence. Distorted perceptions and misunderstood beliefs lead to chronic psychological discomfort, often making daily life and interpersonal relationships difficult. Dysmorphophobia can affect various parts of the body, but most often focuses on the face, leading to anxiety about its appearance and causing strong feelings of anxiety and dissatisfaction. For those affected by this disorder, daily life becomes a struggle with one’s reflection in the mirror and a constant analysis of one’s appearance.
Symptoms of dysmorphophobia. Does the symptom have only a bodily dimension?
People suffering from the disorder may experience the following symptoms:
Obsessive thoughts about appearance
People with dysmorphophobia often experience intrusive thoughts about their appearance that are difficult to control. They may constantly analyze their body and face in the mirror, looking for evidence of their beliefs about ugliness or physical defects.
Constantly comparing themselves with others
People affected by dysmorphophobia mostly compare their body and face to idealized beauty standards presented in social media or traditional media. This comparison can lead to strong feelings of dissatisfaction and anxiety.
Avoidance of social situations
Because of fear and anxiety about their own appearance, people with dysmorphophobia may avoid social situations in which they might be judged by other people. Very good examples include avoiding social gatherings, going out to restaurants or even attending family gatherings.
Changes in behavior
Dysmorphophobia can lead to behavioral changes such as social isolation, avoidance of eye contact, excessive face covering or the use of makeup to hide supposed defects.
Depressive and anxious states
People with dysmorphophobia may suffer from depressive states, anxiety disorders and lowered self-esteem related to their appearance. Recognizing the symptoms of dysmorphophobia and starting treatment early can help reduce the severity of symptoms and improve the quality of life of the affected person.
Causes of dysmorphophobia
Dysmorphophobia can result from a combination of different factors that affect the way a person perceives his or her physical appearance.
The causes of dysmorphophobia are complex and can include both biological and psychological factors. Here are some factors that may contribute to the development of dysmorphophobia:
- There is some evidence that genetics may play a role in the development of dysmorphophobia. People with a family history of anxiety disorders may have a higher risk of developing dysmorphophobia.
- Life experiences. Traumatic experiences related to physical appearance, such as experiencing humiliation, rejection or objections to one’s appearance by other people, can increase the risk of developing dysmorphophobia.
- Anxiety disorders. People with anxiety disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or social anxiety disorder, may be more prone to developing dysmorphophobia.
- Low self-esteem. Low self-esteem and lack of self-confidence can be contributing factors to dysmorphophobia. People who feel dissatisfied with their physical appearance often have difficulty accepting themselves and may be more prone to negative thoughts related to their bodies.
- Social media. Constant exposure to idealized body images presented on social media can lead to comparing oneself to unrealistic standards of beauty and result in increasing dissatisfaction with one’s own appearance.
Body-perception disorders – what health risks are involved?
Body perception disorders, such as dysmorphophobia, can lead to a number of serious risks to the mental and physical health of the affected individual.
The first important aspect is the impact of body perception disorders on mental health. Individuals suffering from dysmorphophobia often experience chronic stress, shame, anxiety, related to their own appearance. Constant negative thoughts and obsessive analysis of one’s body can lead to severely diminished self-esteem and hinder daily functioning. This, in turn, can have a negative impact on interpersonal relationships, professional achievement and overall quality of life.
In addition, distorted perceptions contribute to compulsive and physically damaging behavior. People with dysmorphophobia may undertake extreme diets, exercise excessively or use dangerous dietary supplements in an attempt to improve their appearance. This can lead to eating disorders, such as anorexia or bulimia, and other serious health problems. Excellent examples include malnutrition, endocrine disorders or cardiovascular problems.
It is therefore important to understand that body perception disorders are not just an aesthetic problem, but can have serious consequences for the mental and physical health of the individual affected by dysmorphophobia. Early recognition and treatment of the disorder in question is key to preventing serious health consequences and improving the patient’s overall well-being. It is advisable to seek help from mental health professionals who can provide appropriate support and therapy.
Eating disorders and dysmorphophobia
Dysmorphophobia, or body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), may be closely related to eating disorders, but the two are not the same. There is, however, considerable overlap between the two disorders in some cases.
People with body dysmorphic disorder often tend to exaggerate real or imagined defects in their physical appearance. This can lead to a range of behaviors, including eating disorders. Here are some links between BDD and eating disorders:
- Obsessive thoughts about body image. People with BDD may be obsessively preoccupied with thinking about their appearance, including their weight and body shape. This can lead to the development of eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa or alcoholism.
- Controlling weight and eating. People with BDD may try to control their weight and eating in unhealthy ways, and as a result may develop behaviors characteristic of eating disorders, such as restrictive diets, excessive exercise or compulsive overeating.
- Avoidance of social situations. Both people with BDD and eating disorders may avoid social situations that involve eating or that involve exposing their bodies to other people.
- Low self-esteem related to appearance. Both BDD and eating disorders can lead to lowered self-esteem related to physical appearance, which can exacerbate the symptoms of both disorders.
Facial dysmorphophobia – what should you know?
Facial dys morphophobia is one of the most common and irritable manifestations of dysmorphophobic disorder. People affected by this type of dysmorphophobia are characterized by obsessive thoughts and anxiety about their own facial appearance, which often lead to serious mental health consequences.
Facial dysmorphophobia sufferers often experience chronic dislike of their appearance, despite the absence of any real defects or problems with their appearance. They may experience obsessive thoughts about their appearance, often comparing themselves to idealized beauty standards presented on social media or in the media. This constant analysis and criticism of their own facial appearance leads to a strong sense of fear, anxiety and dissatisfaction with themselves.
For those affected by facial dysmorphophobia, daily life can become a burden, as even simple activities such as leaving the house or talking to others can cause severe fear and anxiety. In addition, interpersonal relationships can also suffer, as people with facial dysmorphophobia may avoid contact with other people for fear of being judged and criticized.
Dysmorphophobia – test
Diagnosing dysmorphophobia can be difficult, as many people experience some degree of dissatisfaction with their appearance. However, there are tests and questionnaires that can help those wondering about the possibility of having this disorder.
Questionnaire
One popular test used to assess dysmorphophobia is the Body Dysmorphic Disorder Questionnaire (BDDQ). Click here to solve.
This questionnaire consists of a dozen questions about thoughts, feelings and behaviors related to one’s appearance. The person completing this test assesses the degree to which various statements reflect his or her own experiences. The results can be used to assess whether a person has a high probability of having dysmorphophobia and whether further consultation with a professional therapist is necessary.
Diagnosis, classification, diagnosis
It is worth noting that self-diagnosis through online tests or questionnaires is not a substitute for professional evaluation by a doctor. However, it can be the first step toward understanding one’s own experience and directing for appropriate treatment. Diagnosis of dysmorphophobia is carried out by a psychiatrist and psychotherapist. A thorough history and analysis of the symptoms present is essential.
Treatment of dysmorphophobia
Treatment of dysmorphophobia is a complex process that requires the involvement of both the patient and the specialist. There are several effective therapeutic methods that can help those affected by this disorder regain control over their lives and improve their well-being.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
One of the most commonly used therapeutic approaches is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thoughts and beliefs about one’s appearance, as well as learning healthy coping strategies for anxiety and distress. During therapy sessions, patients learn relaxation techniques, work proactively with obsessive thoughts and apply stress reduction techniques.
Mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioral therapy (MBCT)
Mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioral therapy (MBCT) can be another effective form of therapy. This form of therapy helps patients consciously observe and accept their thoughts and feelings without judging them as good or bad. Through mindfulness practice, people with dysmorphophobia can learn to feel more acceptance and compassion toward themselves, which can lead to a reduction in discomfort about their appearance.
Group therapy
Group therapy can be an effective therapeutic approach. Participating in group therapy sessions allows people with dysmorphophobia to share their experiences with others, which can bring a sense of understanding, support and belonging. During group sessions, patients can also learn from each other, sharing strategies for dealing with negative thoughts and feelings about their own appearance. Group therapy can be a valuable complement to individual therapy sessions, allowing patients to develop social skills and build bonds with others experiencing similar difficulties.
Pharmacotherapy
In some cases, doctors may also recommend pharmacotherapy, especially if dysmorphophobia occurs in conjunction with other psychiatric disorders, such as depression or anxiety disorders. Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can help reduce the severity of symptoms and improve the patient’s overall well-being.
Regardless of the therapeutic method chosen, regular attendance at therapy and open cooperation with the therapist are key. Through effective treatment and support, dysmorphophobia sufferers can regain confidence and enjoy a more balanced emotional life. Choosing the right therapeutic method depends on individual needs, preferences and the severity of dysmorphophobia symptoms.
Bibliography:
- Phillips, K. A. (2005). The shattered mirror surface: understanding and treating dysmorphophobia disorder. PWN Scientific Publishers.
- Buhlmann, U., & Wilhelm, S. (2006). Dysmorphophobia disorder: The illusion of ugliness. Jagiellonian University Publishing House.
- Crerand, C. E., Sarwer, D. B., & Didie, E. R. (2010). Dysmorphophobia disorder: A therapy manual. Continuo Publishing.
- Wilhelm, S., & Phillips, K. A. (2012). Cognitive-behavioral therapy for dysmorphophobia disorder: A therapist’s manual. Academy of Medicine Publishing House.