Body Dysmorphic Disorder
A condition involving preoccupation with perceived flaws in physical appearance that are not observable or appear slight to others.
Overview
Body dysmorphic disorder involves persistent preoccupation with one or more perceived defects in physical appearance that are not observable or appear only slight to others, along with repetitive behaviors such as mirror checking or reassurance-seeking.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms can include excessive grooming, skin picking related to appearance concerns, comparing appearance with others, and significant distress or avoidance of social situations because of appearance concerns. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause is not fully understood. Genetic factors, similarities to OCD in underlying brain circuits, and sociocultural appearance pressures are associated with risk.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.
Psychotherapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy, including exposure and response prevention, has evidence supporting its use.
Medication
Certain antidepressant medications, particularly SSRIs, may be recommended, sometimes at higher doses. Medication decisions should be made with a qualified prescribing healthcare professional. Do not start, stop, or change a prescribed medication based solely on information on this page.
Living With Body Dysmorphic Disorder
Reducing mirror checking and reassurance-seeking, as learned in therapy, can help reduce symptom severity.
When to Seek Professional Help
Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships.
Emergency Situations
If a person may be in immediate danger, is experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, or may harm themselves or another person, seek immediate assistance through appropriate local emergency services.
Outlook
Body dysmorphic disorder is treatable, and many people experience meaningful improvement with evidence-based treatment.
Related Conditions
Medical Information Disclaimer
Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
- National Institute of Mental Health.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
- World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.