Body Dysmorphic Disorder
Is it normal to worry this much about how I look?
Some worry is. Most of us have a feature we'd tweak given the chance: the shape of a nose, skin that isn't as clear as we'd like, a stomach that sits differently from how we imagine it should.
The longer answer is about how much room those thoughts take up. When they become overwhelming fears and eat hours of your day, shape your decisions and make you want to hide, it may be more than ordinary insecurity.
What is body dysmorphic disorder (BDD)?
BDD is a condition in which someone becomes intensely preoccupied with one or more aspects of their appearance, convinced something is wrong, unattractive or defective. To other people the "flaw" may be minor or invisible. To the person living with it, the distress is completely real. It affects people of every age and gender.
What does it sound like inside your head?
"People must be noticing." "Everyone's judging me." "I can't relax until I fix this." "I just want to feel normal in my own skin."
What are the signs?
• Looking: checking mirrors and reflective surfaces often, or avoiding mirrors altogether because seeing yourself is distressing
• Fixing and hiding: makeup, clothing or hairstyles to cover a disliked feature; considering cosmetic procedures or excessive exercise to feel "better enough"
• Comparing and asking: measuring yourself against others, seeking reassurance again and again, struggling to believe compliments
• Pulling back: avoiding photos, dating, social events or being seen in public
• Feeling: self-conscious, anxious, low or worn out by constant appearance worries
Is this just vanity?
No. BDD tends to sit alongside low self-esteem, anxiety, perfectionism, fear of judgement or difficult life experiences, and a deep sense of not being "good enough." Social media, unrealistic beauty standards and heavily edited images can make it harder still to feel at ease with yourself.
It isn't a choice and it isn't your fault. But it can change.
What does treatment look like?
I help people gently understand what's driving these painful thoughts and feelings, and change the patterns that keep them stuck. The goal isn't just to cope better. It's to feel calmer, more accepting of yourself and less controlled by appearance worries, so you can enjoy life again. You can access the eating issues page here.
Can I get help from home?
Yes. Sessions run online via FaceTime, WhatsApp, Messenger or Zoom, so you can get support privately from wherever you are in the world. All you need is a phone, tablet or computer and a decent internet connection.
What's the first step?
A free initial consultation, where you can ask questions, talk through what's been happening and see whether this feels right, with no pressure or obligation. Email me or call (61) 0409 254 500.
