Body dysmorphic disorder

Body dysmorphic disorder is an illness characterised by distorted body image-sufferers become obsessed by slight or imagined defects in their appearance. This is still underdiagnosed but quite dangerous as there is a high rate of suicide with it. This condition affects one in hundred people and some believe the number of sufferers is growing fast. In today’s society and the media there is an increasing emphasis on physical perfection. It often starts in adolescence and can be triggered by stress, extreme teasing, sexual abuse or the use of the drug ecstasy.
BDD affects as many men as women, particularly those who are sensitive, perfectionist or work in an artistic field. It can take the form of a general feeling of ugliness or can revolve around a particular body part, most commonly the face. Sufferers may go to great lengths to hide their flaw and can develop obsessive rituals such as checking their appearance, adjusting their hair or measuring the hated body part. They can become addicted to cosmetic surgery or weightlifting.
BDD causes a change in the brain chemistry, particularly of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which regulates happiness and satisfaction. The most effective treatment seems to be a combination of cognitive therapy and a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor drug.