BDD

Taking over from Tolu Ijaoba on the subject of body shaming. 

I believe that there is a need to shed some light on what exactly BDD entails.

So what is BDD?

BDD is an acronym for Body Dysmorphic Disorder. It is a mental health condition in which a person is unable to stop thinking about their perceived flaws or defects.

It makes one extremely anxious and ashamed of their appearance, which convinces them of the need to always look for ways to repair their perceived flaws; which in most cases could be plastic surgery and other cosmetic based operations.

Signs and symptoms of BDD

How do you know if you have BDD? The signs and symptoms may include:

1. Having a strong and passionate belief that something is wrong with how you look, i.e a general discontentment with your appearance.
2. When you believe others see you the way you see yourself and that is what causes them to mock and say a lot of negative things about you.
3. Attempting to find ways to correct a 'defect.'
4. Always needing reassurance on your appearance.
Etcetera.

This might not look like a big deal to you, but that's where you're wrong. BDD can cause some certain complications. I'll list a few. They are:

1. Low self-esteem.
2. Depression.
3. Social anxiety disorder.
4. Eating disorders.
5. Risk of disfigurement— due to various body alterations.
6. Drug Abuse.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for this particular disorder,  but I think the best mode of treatment will be opting in for; Behavioural therapy, Psychotherapy and Cognitive behavioural therapy.

Thank you for sticking around till the end.                  

XOXO

Sources

Mayoclinic Org

Dr. Axe.com