BDD

A lot of people have never heard of Body Dysmorphic Disorder. Even fewer understand how BDD can relate to OCD.

Have Body Dysmorphic Disorder is much more than being unhappy with your appearance.

What are the common signs and symptoms of BDD?

- Frequent thoughts about appearance (at least an hour a day)

- Spending a lot of time staring in a mirror and/or reflective surface fixated on the flaw, or in some cases, a complete avoidance of mirrors/reflective surfaces

- Covering up the affected area.

- Repeatedly asking others to tell you that you look okay (also referred to as ‘reassurance seeking).

- Frequent appointments with medical professionals/cosmetic surgeons

- Repeated plastic surgery

- Compulsive skin picking, which includes using fingernails and tweezers are to remove blemishes and/or hair.

- Avoiding social situations, public places, work, school, etc.

- Leaving the house less often or only going out at night to prevent others from seeing the flaw.

- Keeping your obsessions and compulsions secret due to feelings of shame

- Emotional problems, such as feelings of disgust, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, etc.

Do you live with BDD? How do you think BDD relates to OCD?