by No Single Name

Created on: May 03, 2009   Last Updated: May 11, 2009

In today's superficial culture, there stands an increased risk for young women to develop eating disorders such as Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia; but sliding in under the radar is a little-known and sadly, relatively common disorder known as Body Dysmorphic Disorder. Often beginning during adolescence, it is a disorder which can go treated for many years typically because a reluctant on the part of the individual to reveal or discuss symptoms.

According to the DSM-IV, Body Dysmorphic Disorder is an obsession with some defect in appearance, be it real or imagined, regardless of severity. Infatuations with commonplace, slight flaws such as acne, wrinkles, scars, or complexion are common signs of the illness, as are preoccupations with proportions and aspects of the face itself though dysmorphophobia, as it is classically called, is not restricted to the facial area and may focus on any part of the body.

This fascination may cause an obsession with the so-called "defect," in which the sufferer may allow such negative thoughts of body image to consume their lives; this can lead to extreme feelings of self-consciousness which cause the victim to avoid social or public situations. On the rare occasion when they do join the outside world, it is with a shield of some sort: obsessive grooming, constant make-up checks, carefully-concealing clothing. In short, this is not only a disorder that can lead to self-loathing, but total social isolation. Days may be spent comparing oneself to models and celebrities, or compulsive checking of the "defect."

So how can someone overcome BDD in a day and age where physical perfection is paramount?

Therapy is usually a very helpful option for the afflicted; professionals may help guide BDD sufferers through new ways of looking at themselves and re-examining any problems they feel they may have. For the strong-willed, however, this may be done at home; a sufferer must learn to stop comparing themselves to others, and recognize that people displayed in the media are exceptions rather than the rule. Weaning oneself of compulsive defect checking is also standard, and may take time BDD can often seem more an addiction than a disorder.

Eventually, as a sufferer emerges from their compulsions a little at a time, they should try to begin going without their outside protection usually make-up or obsessive grooming but be aware that they will experience anxiety; it is at this stage when it is most important to stop oneself from falling back into old patterns, as is tempting with BDD. In some cases, anti-depressants may be necessary, but it is often hit-or-miss; in the end, it is up to the patient to make the decision that even with whatever flaws they have, real or imagined, they are still a beautiful human being.

Though a sad and painful affliction, Body Dysmorphic Disorder can be overcome, either with outside help or by oneself. It is important for sufferers to remember that they are perfect the way they are, fat or skinny, pale or tan, bald or redheaded; something we often forget in this society, and something that needs to be re-learned.

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