Body dysmorphia is a mental health disorder that affects millions of people around the world. It is characterized by an intense preoccupation with one’s physical appearance, often leading to feelings of shame and distress.

Unfortunately, body dysmorphia is severely undiagnosed and can have serious repercussions if left untreated. If you or someone you know is struggling with body dysmorphia, it’s important to seek help from a qualified therapist near you.

The Online Mental Health Reviews team is qualified to write about body dysmorphia because we are dedicated to helping individuals appreciate their mental health, understand various treatment options and best options, and make informed decisions to overcome mental health challenges.

In this blog article, we’ll give an overview of Body Dysmorphia and how you can identify an appropriate clinician or therapist nearby.

Quickly Book High Quality, Local Doctors Who Take Your Insurance

Learn More

List of Body Dysmorphia Resources

1. Body Dysmorphic Disorder Foundation [https://bddfoundation.org/] A non-profit organization dedicated to raising public awareness of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). It offers comprehensive information, support, and treatment options for those struggling with the condition.
2. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) [https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/body-dysmorphic-disorder-bdd/index.shtml] A US government agency providing critical information regarding BDD, including signs and symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
3. Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) [https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/related-illnesses/other-related-conditions/body-dysmorphic-disorder-bdd] ADAA is a leading non-profit organization that provides resources, education, and support for anxiety and depression-related disorders, including BDD.
4. International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) [https://iocdf.org/expert-opinions/body-dysmorphic-disorder-and-ocd/] This organization is dedicated to helping people with obsessive-compulsive disorder and related conditions like BDD. They offer expert advice, resources, and support networks.
5. Zocdoc [https://www.zocdoc.com/] Zocdoc is an online platform that allows you to search for mental health professionals, including therapists who specialize in BDD treatment. You can compare reviews, pricing, and availability to find the best provider for your needs.
6. Talkspace [https://www.talkspace.com/] This platform offers online therapy sessions with licensed therapists, including those experienced in treating BDD. Talkspace provides a convenient way to access professional help from the comfort of your own home. See our Talkspace buy-try-review.
7. Headspace [https://www.headspace.com/] Headspace is a popular meditation and mindfulness app that can help you manage stress and anxiety related to BDD. It offers guided meditation sessions, mindfulness exercises, and educational resources to improve your mental well-being. See our Headspace buy-try-review.
8. Brightside Health [https://www.brightside.com/] Brightside Health provides personalized online therapy and medication management for anxiety and depression. Their team of licensed mental health professionals can help you find the right treatment plan for your BDD. See our Brightside Health buy-try-review.
9. Psychology Today [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/body-dysmorphic-disorder] This resource allows you to search for therapists specializing in BDD treatment in your area. You can filter results by location, insurance, and other factors to find the best match for your needs.
10. Mental Health America (MHA) [https://www.mhanational.org/conditions/body-dysmorphic-disorder] MHA is a leading community-based non-profit organization focused on mental health support and advocacy. They provide information on BDD, including symptoms, treatments, and resources for further assistance.

We hope this comprehensive list of BDD therapy and mental health resources empowers you to find the support and help you need to overcome Body Dysmorphic Disorder. Remember, you’re not alone, and there are numerous resources available to assist you on your journey to better mental health.

Continue reading to learn more about BDD.

What Is Body Dysmorphia?

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental health disorder characterized by an excessive preoccupation with one’s physical appearance.

People with BDD are often highly critical of their bodies and may obsess over perceived flaws or imperfections that others may not even notice.

This obsession with body parts can lead to extreme anxiety and distress, as well as avoidance of social situations due to fear of being judged or ridiculed for their perceived flaws.

Symptoms of Body Dysmorphia

The symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder vary from person to person, but some common signs according to the Mayo Clinic include:

• Obsessive thoughts about one’s physical appearance
• Excessive grooming behaviors such as hair-pulling or skin-picking
• Avoidance of mirrors and other reflective surfaces
• Compulsive comparison to other people’s appearances
• Low self-esteem due to perceived flaws in appearance
• Extreme anxiety in social situations due to fear of being judged or ridiculed for one’s appearance

The Consequences Of Undiagnosed Body Dysmorphia

Left untreated, body dysmorphic disorder can have serious consequences on a person’s mental and physical health.

• People with BDD may develop depression or anxiety disorders due to their preoccupation with their physical appearance, which can lead to further isolation and difficulty functioning in daily life.
• Additionally, people with BDD may engage in dangerous behaviors such as eating disorders such as excessive dieting, steroid use, plastic surgery addiction, or substance abuse in an attempt to “fix” their perceived flaws.
• These behaviors can be extremely damaging both physically and mentally and should be avoided at all costs.

Is BDD a serious mental illness?

Yes! Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a serious mental illness that affects millions of people around the world.

What are the 2 types of dysmorphia?

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition that causes people to become preoccupied with perceived flaws in their appearance. There are two main subtypes of BDD: muscle dysmorphia and BDD by proxy.

1. Muscle dysmorphia is characterized by an excessive preoccupation with the idea that one’s body is too small or not muscular good fit enough. People with this type of BDD may engage in extreme dieting, excessive exercise, and the use of supplements or steroids to achieve their desired body shape.
2. BDD by proxy involves a person becoming overly concerned about the physical appearance of another person, such as a family member or friend. This type of BDD can lead to feelings of guilt and shame, as well as attempts to control the other person’s behavior to make them conform to the individual’s idealized version of beauty aesthetic appearance.

Both types of BDD can have serious consequences on an individual’s mental health and well-being, so it is important for those affected to seek professional help if they feel they are struggling with either type of dysmorphia.

What are the Main 3 signs and symptoms of body dysmorphia?

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition characterized by an excessive preoccupation with perceived flaws in one’s physical appearance.

The three main signs and symptoms of BDD include:

1. Preoccupation with one’s appearance: People with BDD often spend a great deal of time worrying about their appearance, comparing themselves to others, and seeking reassurance from others about their looks.
2. Compulsive and repetitive behaviors: People with BDD may engage in compulsive behaviors such as mirror checking, skin picking, or excessive grooming to try to fix the perceived flaws.
3. Feelings of distress and low self-esteem: People with BDD often feel ashamed, embarrassed, anxious, or depressed due to their perceived physical flaws. They may also have difficulty functioning in daily life due to these feelings of distress.

Who can diagnose body dysmorphia?

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition that causes people to become preoccupied with perceived flaws in their physical appearance. To diagnose BDD, it is important to consult a mental health professional such as a psychologist or psychiatrist.

During the evaluation process, the mental health provider will assess risk factors and thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to a negative self-image. They may also look for signs of preoccupation with appearance, excessive grooming, skin picking, and comparing themselves to others.

However, there are unofficial BDD diagnosis quizzes that can help you determine if you should see a doctor.

For example, the Body Dysmorphia Test (https://bddfoundation.org/information/do-i-have-bdd-test/) can give you approximate info. If your diagnosis confirms BDD and is what you expect, this can give you the clarity to seek further medical advice.

Best CBT Online Course for Mental Health Professionals and 19 Continuing Education Credits

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Intensive Training Course

In this intensive online CBT course taught by John Ludgate, Ph.D., a well-known CBT expert and author, you will learn the skills and competencies of CBT and apply them to concerns related to body image.

Plus, you can earn up to 19 CE Hours, which are part of the training fee.

• This will prepare you to use CBT with a wide range of clinical populations, including BDD. Evidence shows that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the best ways to treat mental health problems that keep coming back or are hard to deal with, including body image.
• Now, you have the chance to learn this powerful method from CBT expert and author John Ludgate, Ph.D. in an in-depth online study.
• The Academy of Cognitive Therapy was started with Dr. Ludgate as a founding fellow. At the Center for Cognitive Therapy, he learned from Dr. Aaron Beck, who came up with the idea of cognitive therapy.
• You can give clients and patients hope by using interventions that have been shown to work and are strong and useful.

Where Does Body Dysmorphia Come From

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition that causes an individual to become preoccupied with perceived flaws in their physical appearance. The exact cause of BDD is not known, however, several factors may contribute to its development according to Hopkins Medicine.

These include a few family members’ histories of BDD or similar mental disorders, abnormal levels of brain chemicals, certain personality types, and life experiences. It is also important to note that the symptoms of BDD can vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe.

Do you need therapy for body dysmorphia?

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition characterized by an excessive preoccupation with perceived flaws in one’s physical appearance.

The main way to treat BDD is through a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication, however, other approaches like somatic experiencing are valid, and these approaches should be considered as well.

CBT can help you identify and challenge the negative thoughts that fuel your BDD, while medications can help reduce symptoms such as depression or anxiety. It is important to seek professional help if you think you may be struggling with BDD, as it can have a serious impact on your life.

Does treatment for body dysmorphia work?

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition that causes people to become preoccupied with perceived flaws in their physical appearance. Fortunately, there are treatments available that can help those suffering from BDD.

• According to a review of BDD treatment¹, the most effective treatment for BDD is a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medications such as serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
• CBT helps people to identify and challenge negative thought patterns that lead to distress, while SRIs can help reduce the intensity of symptoms.
• Other treatments may include exposure therapy, habit reversal training, and psychodynamic psychotherapy.

With the right treatment plan, individuals with BDD can learn to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

However, please note that the same BDD review says, “cognitive and behavior therapy, which so far has been found to be effective (for BDD). The current literature suggests that there is no difference between the efficacy of one treatment strategy over another nor the combination of cognitive and behavior therapy over behavior therapy“.

What is the drug of choice for body dysmorphia?

In a practical summary of BDD medications², study authors note serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SRIs, or SSRIs) are the most commonly prescribed medications for body dysmorphic disorder (BDD).

• These medications include fluoxetine (Prozac), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluvoxamine (Luvox), sertraline (Zoloft), paroxetine (Paxil), and clomipramine (Anafranil).
• In some cases, risperidone may also be prescribed.
• SSRIs are believed to be more effective than other antidepressants in treating BDD, as they can help control negative thoughts and compulsions associated with the disorder.
• It is important to note that medication alone is not sufficient to treat BDD; psychotherapy is also recommended for long-term success.

What is the best antidepressant for BDD?

The best type of antidepressant for BDD is typically a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI), according to the International OCD Foundation.

• Common SSRIs used to treat BDD include Celexa (citalopram), Lexapro (escitalopram), Prozac (fluoxetine), Zoloft (sertraline), Luvox (fluvoxamine), and Paxil (paroxetine).
• Fluoxetine or Prozac is the most commonly prescribed SSRI for BDD, however, all SRIs are generally considered equally effective.
• Clomipramine is another option that may be used either alone or in combination with other SSRIs.

Again, it is important to note that medication alone may not be enough to treat BDD, and should be combined with psychotherapy for best results.

Can you treat body dysmorphia by yourself?

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is usually treated with a combination of talk therapy and medication. However, it is also possible to manage the symptoms of BDD by yourself.

• Self-help resources developed by clinical psychologists can guide how to cope with BDD.
• Additionally, physical activities such as walking, jogging, swimming, gardening, somatic grounding, or yoga can help reduce stress and anxiety associated with BDD.
• Journaling and meditation are also helpful in managing the symptoms of BDD.

It is important to remember that there is no magical fix for this condition and it takes time to heal from obsessive thoughts and worries.

Types of body dysmorphic disorder therapies

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition that causes individuals to obsess over perceived flaws in their appearance.

• Treatment for BDD often includes a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medications.
• CBT is the first line of treatment for BDD and typically involves techniques such as exposure and response prevention, education about the disorder, and cognitive restructuring.
• Medications used to treat BDD include serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or known as SSRIs, which can help reduce symptoms such as anxiety and depression.
• Other treatments for BDD include family therapy, cosmetic surgery, and lifestyle changes such as getting adequate sleep, eating healthy foods, exercising regularly, and avoiding drugs or alcohol.

What therapy is best for body dysmorphia?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been established as the primary psychological treatment modality for BDD and is effective.

• CBT involves education about the various body dysmorphic disorders diagnosed and their symptoms, as well as techniques such as cognitive restructuring and exposure to response prevention.
• Additionally, medications such as serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can help reduce symptoms of BDD, making it easier to manage.
• A combination of both CBT and medication is often recommended for treating BDD.

Body Dysmorphic Groups

Please see the BDD Foundation website for a list of 20+ BDD support groups: https://bddfoundation.org/support/online-support-groups/

For example, listing #17 is Body Dysmorphic Anonymous (BDA). BDA is an online support group that provides a safe and anonymous space for those struggling with body dysmorphia.

• BDA is open to anyone, regardless of location, and offers a 12-step program designed to help members recover from the disorder.
• The program encourages members to share their experiences, learn coping skills, and find support from others who understand what they are going through.
• Additionally, BDA provides resources such as online forums, chat rooms, and helplines for members to access when needed.

With these tools in place, BDA strives to create a supportive environment where individuals can work together to overcome body dysmorphia.

Body Dysmorphia Therapist Near Me Conclusion:

Body dysmorphic disorder is a serious mental health condition that affects millions of people around the world every year. It is characterized by an intense preoccupation with one’s physical appearance that can lead to severe anxiety and distress if left untreated.

If you think you or someone you know might be suffering from BDD, it’s important to seek help from a qualified therapist near you who specializes in treating this condition so they can get the help they need before it becomes more serious.

Do you have any questions about finding a non-binary therapist near you? Resources are available for finding non-binary therapists, body dysmorphia therapists, gender dysphoria, gay couples therapy, and gay relationship counseling services.

Our team wants to hear your thoughts too! Let us know which mental health software product that Online Mental Health Reviews should explore and review next. Please share discount codes, horror stories and your experiences so we may all benefit!

Quickly Book High Quality, Local Doctors Who Take Your Insurance

Learn More

Sources:

1. Neziroglu, F., & Khemlani-Patel, S. (2002, June). A Review of Cognitive and Behavioral Treatment for Body Dysmorphic Disorder. CNS Spectrums, 7(6), 464–471. https://doi.org/10.1017/s1092852900017971
2. Phillips KA, Hollander E. Treating body dysmorphic disorder with medication: evidence, misconceptions, and a suggested approach. Body Image. 2008 Mar;5(1):13-27. doi: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2007.12.003. Epub 2008 Mar 5. PMID: 18325859; PMCID: PMC2705931.
3. Author, V. (2022, January 14). Top 10 Recommendations for Treating Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) with Medication – BDD. BDD. https://bdd.iocdf.org/blog/2022/01/14/top-10-recommendations-for-treating-body-dysmorphic-disorder-bdd-with-medication/
4. Wilhelm, S., Phillips, K. A., Greenberg, J. L., O’Keefe, S. M., Hoeppner, S. S., Keshaviah, A., Sarvode-Mothi, S., & Schoenfeld, D. A. (2019, April 1). Efficacy and Posttreatment Effects of Therapist-Delivered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy vs Supportive Psychotherapy for Adults With Body Dysmorphic Disorder. JAMA Psychiatry, 76(4), 363. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2018.4156

If You’re In An Emergency

In a crisis, waiting for an online therapy session might not be the safest option. If you require immediate assistance, dial 911, especially if you have intentions of harming yourself or others. For thoughts of self-harm, consider calling the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, which offers round-the-clock support.

Additionally, you can reach out to the National Helpline of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) at 800-662-HELP (4357). This helpline is a free, confidential service that assists individuals with mental health or substance abuse issues in finding treatment and gaining information 24/7, every day of the year.