Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)
Body Dysmorphic Disorder is a condition where individuals become preoccupied with perceived flaws in their physical appearance—flaws that are either minor or invisible to others.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)
Body Dysmorphic Disorder is a condition where individuals become preoccupied with perceived flaws in their physical appearance—flaws that are either minor or invisible to others. This preoccupation leads to significant distress, low self-esteem, and repetitive behaviors such as mirror checking, excessive grooming, or seeking reassurance about looks.
BDD is not vanity; it is an anxiety-driven distortion of self-image that makes individuals feel unattractive, disfigured, or “not normal,” even when others see nothing unusual. It is strongly linked to depression, social withdrawal, and in some cases, suicidal thoughts. In Saudi Arabia, BDD is a growing concern, particularly with rising cultural emphasis on beauty standards and the influence of social media filters. Many individuals may pursue unnecessary cosmetic procedures in an attempt to “fix” perceived flaws, which rarely relieves their distress.
What constitutes BDD?
Preoccupation with one or more perceived defects in physical appearance, accompanied by repetitive behaviors (mirror checking, skin picking, excessive grooming) or mental acts (comparing appearance to others), causing impairment.
Symptoms and warning signs
- Intense focus on perceived flaws (skin, nose, hair, body shape, etc.)
- Frequent mirror checking or complete avoidance of mirrors
- Excessive grooming or makeup use
- Repeatedly seeking reassurance about appearance
- Avoidance of social situations due to self-consciousness
- Pursuit of cosmetic procedures without satisfaction
Causes and risk factors
- Genetic predisposition
- Childhood teasing or bullying about appearance
- Cultural pressure and beauty ideals
- Co-occurring anxiety or depressive disorders
Treatment approaches
- CBT: focusing on body image distortions and compulsive checking behaviors
- Medication: SSRIs for obsessive thinking and anxiety
- Psychoeducation: helping patients understand that cosmetic surgery rarely resolves symptoms
- Family therapy: addressing reassurance-seeking cycles
Why Act Center for Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia?
Our experienced BDD specialists in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia offer specialized treatment to help patients overcome distressing preoccupations with perceived appearance flaws.
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