People with body dysmorphic disorder or body dysmorphophobia have one or more perceived physical disabilities that are invisible or barely noticeable to others. We clarify the most important questions.
Psychiatrist Kashtanov named five signs especially for Medikforum that you have body dysmorphophobia:
- People spend hours checking their appearance and perceive flaws, for example, in front of a mirror or from pictures on a smartphone.
- They are forced to dress up for a long time and excessively.
- Often comparing your appearance to others, drawing irrational conclusions and looking for confirmation that their flaws really exist.
- Cosmetic or surgical treatment is applied to correct the alleged defect.
- They feel shy and avoid being seen in public. There is social isolation.
Important: Thesesigns may indicate a disorder. The diagnosis should always be made by a psychiatrist or psychologist.
What causes body dysmorphophobia?
There is no specific cause of body dysmorphophobia.
“The disorder often begins during puberty, when most people become insecure about their appearance,” says psychiatrist Mikhail Kashtanov, especially for MedicForum.
Two to three percent of the population suffers from body dysmorphophobia. The disorder can also be caused by negative childhood experiences such as abuse, neglect, or bullying.
“A combination of medication and cognitive behavioral therapy is usually recommended. Treatment may vary individually. Those affected should see a psychologist if they suspect an illness “.
MedicalForum has previously written about the causes of belly fat.
Important! Information provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and under no circumstances self-medicate. At the first sign of illness, consult a doctor.