Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) Information and Treatment Options

Do you find yourself ruminating about specific aspects of your appearance such as your nose, skin or hair? If so you may be experiencing body dysmorphic disorder (BDD).

BDD tends to emerge during adolescence or adulthood and can impact both males and females.

The symptoms of BDD include a preoccupation with aspects of one’s physical appearance that are considered flaws or defects but are not noticed, or appear minor to others. This preoccupation tends to foster repeated actions such as mirror checking, seeking reassurance or mental acts which tends to compound distress. Individuals with BDD report their preoccupation triggers distress and difficulty engaging in other life pursuits including work, relationships and recreational activities.

Owing to their heightened sensitivity regarding the appearance of specific body areas or parts, individuals may find themselves feeling fearful that others are judging or mocking them. This can make it difficult for them to disclose their worries to others. Those experiencing BDD may also have other psychological difficulties related to depression, anxiety and substance use difficulties.

Treatment Options

Current treatment recommendations drawn from evidence based research and practice indicate strategies from cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) may be helpful. CBT highlights the associations between thoughts, feelings and behaviours and works to assist individuals to identify and address distorted thinking patters and set challenges regarding behaviour experiments. ACT is a mindfulness based therapy that encourages individuals to continue living a meaningful life despite difficulties with distress. The development of mindfulness skills allows the formation of different appraisals of one’s experience to emerge and also fosters a capacity to feel comfortable with various emotions.

The trained psychotherapists at Bayside Psychotherapy will endeavour to listen carefully and assist you

Call us on (03) 9557 9113 or use our contact form to enquire. When you are ready, book your confidential appointment. We can work together and discuss your concerns around BDD and then develop a collaborative treatment plan.

How long will BDD treatment take?

Treatment can take a while, but no two people are alike. Our counsellors tailor your treatments to your situation and to your progress. We may include one or a combination of mindfulness therapy, dream work, NLP, Hypnotherapy and other such methods in an effort to assist you in reaching your goals, depending on your circumstances and which therapist you work with. Some people listen to self hypnosis recordings in between sessions, such as the Overcome BDD self hypnosis MP3 download.

Call us to enquire on (03) 9557 9113 or use our online form. Set up a meeting with a psychotherapist via Skype, Zoom or Doxy and we can meet at a mutually beneficial time. Your call is completely confidential, and there’s absolutely no obligation.

You can book here for therapy. No need to travel. You control whether you use the camera or not during the sessions.