Body Dysmorphia
Contents
Local Providers for Body Dysmorphia
What body dysmorphia is
Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), or body dysmorphia, is a mental health condition where a person spends a lot of time worrying about perceived flaws in their appearance.
These concerns are often unnoticeable to others but can cause severe distress and impact daily life, education, and relationships.
Signs and symptoms
Someone with body dysmorphia may:
- constantly compare their appearance to others
- check mirrors repeatedly or avoid them completely
- spend excessive time grooming or seeking reassurance
- avoid social situations or being photographed
- believe certain body parts are “wrong” or “ugly”
- experience depression, anxiety or obsessive thoughts
Check signs of body dysmorphia
Learn how to recognise when appearance worries become a mental health concern.
Causes and risk factors
Body dysmorphia can be caused by a combination of:
- low self-esteem or perfectionism
- bullying or teasing about appearance
- social media or beauty standards
- trauma or difficult life events
- family history of anxiety or obsessive–compulsive disorder
Early intervention can prevent symptoms from becoming severe.
Learn what can cause body dysmorphia
Understand how genetics, environment and social pressures interact.
Getting assessed and diagnosed
Diagnosis is made by:
- a GP or psychiatrist
- referral to a mental health specialist
- discussion of thought patterns, behaviours and impact on life
Assessment helps rule out related conditions such as OCD, depression, or eating disorders.
Support in education
Young people with body dysmorphia may:
- find school environments, mirrors or uniforms distressing
- struggle with attendance, focus or social interactions
Schools can help by:
- providing emotional support and trusted adults
- promoting healthy body image and self-esteem
- offering counselling or CAMHS referrals
- allowing adjustments such as uniform flexibility or quiet spaces
Treatment and recovery
Effective treatments include:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) focused on body image and obsessive thinking
- Medication such as SSRIs (prescribed by a psychiatrist)
- Psychoeducation to build self-awareness
Support groups and peer mentoring