BDD is a disturbance in the perception of the body. People with BDD have an extreme focus on a particular body part. They think they are ugly and are extremely concerned about it. Outsiders find these concerns exaggerated or don’t understand what the person with BDD is concerned about.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder
In most cases, it’s about the face. So many people with BDD hate their nose, ears, eyes, or hair, but it can actually be any part of the body. Skin, hair, nose, weight and belly are the five most common insecurities.
Diagnose
The diagnosis is not yet well known in the Netherlands. It is therefore not possible to say with certainty how many people suffer from this disorder and what percentages belong to this.
suicidal
The following statistics show that this is a serious disorder and not just uncertainty. Nearly 80 percent of people with BDD sometimes have suicidal thoughts, and 20 percent even attempt it.
To arise
The disorder develops during childhood or adolescence. Neurologically, BDD resembles obsessive-compulsive disorder or anorexia nervosa. In the DSM-5, the disorder is classified as obsessive-compulsive and related disorders.
Body dysmorphic disorder can be caused by bullying, parenting, trauma or (sexual) abuse. Social media can amplify the complaints. Making a diagnosis is difficult in practice. There is no checklist on the basis of which that diagnosis can be made. It is a combination of several factors.
Therapy
BDD is treated with therapy and medications, often antidepressants. Group therapy is also offered. The complaints can be reduced by means of cognitive behavioral therapy and the unlearning of avoidance.
By: National Care Guide / Æde de Jong
Sources: Nu.nl, PsyQ, Amsterdam UMC
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