Body dysmorphic disorder is a condition where the individual is over obsessed with a cosmetic flaw (real or imaginary).
It is a psychological disorder can have a severe impact on the individuals quality of life.
It may be a cause for excessive plastic surgery as the victim will perform numerous cosmetic procedures on themselves to correct the perceived flaw.
Victims are usually very critical of the perceived flaw even though there may be nothing wrong with him or her.
In extreme cases, this obsession can lead to depression and social isolation.
It is thought that up to two percent of the worlds population suffer from this disorder.
Sadly, those that suffer from body dysmorphic disorder are more likely to commit suicide than even those suffering from chronic depression.
The most common parts of the body that are obsessed with are the skin, nose and hair.
There are a number of symptoms to look out for when determining if the person does indeed suffer from this disorder.
All of these symptoms must have come about due to the imagined flaw.
- A constant obsession with an imagined cosmetic flaw - Numerous plastic surgery procedures performed on the area of obsession - Low self esteem in public because the victim feels people are aware of the imaginary flaw - Depression - Substance abuse (Drugs, Alcohol) - Constantly glancing at their reflection should the opportunity arise The reason that specific individuals suffer from this disorder is thought to be very wide.
They include constant teasing when they were young, abuse and bullying.
Those with a history of obsessive-compulsive behavior are also more susceptible.
Cognitive behavior therapy is the most common treatment performed on patients today.
It is relatively successful as well.
It is a treatment that attempts to help the patient understand the emotions and feelings that ultimately influence their behavior.
This treatment is also used with patients dealing with anxiety and depression.