Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Identifying and Treating an Invisible Problem

Published in Vol 1 2015 Australian Clinical Psychologist. By Dr Ben Buchanan

Abstract
Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), previously classified as a somatoform disorder, has recently been reconceptualised as related to obsessive– compulsive disorder. BDD is similar to obsessive–compulsive disorder in terms of having obsessions (body image) and compulsions (checking behaviours related to appearance). People with BDD can spend hours each day checking their appearance in the mirror because they believe they are ugly or disfigured, when in fact they look normal. BDD is surprisingly common and has about five times the prevalence of anorexia nervosa, yet is underdiagnosed. However, the research indicates that, once recognised, cognitive behaviour therapy, with an emphasis on exposure and response prevention, is an effective treatment.

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Full article here: Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Identifying and Treating an Invisible Problem