Information about Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BBD)

What causes it?

The cause of BDD is unclear, but it may be genetic or caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain.

What are the symptoms?

People with BDD are excessively worried about a part of their body which they perceive to have a defect. They continue to believe this despite reassurances about their appearance.

Any area of the body may be involved in BDD, but the face is the most common.

A person with BDD may:

Wear excessive make-up or heavy clothing to hide their perceived defect

Repeatedly look in the mirror and seek reassurance about their appearance

Frequently touch or measure the perceived defect

Repeatedly pick at their skin or pluck their hair and eyebrows

Feel anxious when around other people

Seek medical treatment for the perceived defect

Diet and exercise excessively

People with BDD may not be able to hold down a job and sometimes avoid socialising. They can also find it difficult to have relationships.

Who's affected?

BDD is believed to affect at least one per cent of the UK population. It's more common in people with a history of depression and/or social phobia.

It usually starts in adolescence when people are most sensitive about their appearance.

What's the treatment?

Treatment may include antidepressant medication, cognitive behavioural therapy or a combination of both. Anti-psychotic medication is sometimes used.

It's difficult to prevent BDD from developing since its cause remains unclear.

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