Body Dysmorphic Disorder is quite simply an imagined defect in some part of your body; most commonly the face or stomach.
BDD is very common in treating eating disorders because often this imagined defect leads to obsession and disordered eating to reach the desired body weight and shape.
Other times, BDD leads to unnecessary cosmetic surgery.
What to do?
- Stop mirror checking. Cut down slowly.
- Look at yourself realistically in the mirror and try positive affirmations like, Not bad!
- Find things that you like about your body, face etc. say it out loud I like my… Or write it down.
- Look deeper to underlying issues that may be causing you to falsely imagine defects and dislike your body shape and /or parts.
- Find a counselor to help you uncover the underlying feelings of low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, poor body image and difficult childhood traumas.
- Involve yourself in things of interest and distract yourself from focusing on your looks.
Ilissa Banhazl, MFT Glendora
626.335.0903