When do you know if your "little" obsession is more than little? How can you tell if it is becoming a problem? It is no easy feat, that's for sure! Body dysmorphia, also known as body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), is a mental health condition characterised by an obsessive focus on perceived flaws or defects in one's appearance. While many are familiar with the general concept of BDD, there are several lesser-known subtypes and related conditions that deserve attention. Here are ten of them:
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Muscle Dysmorphia
- Description: Often referred to as "bigorexia", this condition involves an obsession with not being muscular enough.
- Signs: Over-exercising, excessive protein consumption, and steroid abuse.
- Risks: Physical injuries, steroid addiction, and other health issues.
- Overcoming: Cognitive-behavioural therapy, support groups, and professional counseling.
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Hair Dysmorphia
- Description: Obsession over hair appearance, thickness, or hair loss.
- Signs: Constantly checking hair, avoiding social situations due to hair appearance, or excessive use of hair products.
- Risks: Scalp damage, isolation.
- Overcoming: Acceptance therapy, counselling, and hair treatments if necessary.
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Skin Dysmorphia
- Description: Obsession over skin imperfections like acne, wrinkles, or scars.
- Signs: Excessive use of makeup or skincare products, avoiding mirrors, or seeking multiple dermatological treatments.
- Risks: Skin damage, low self-esteem.
- Overcoming: Dermatological advice, therapy, and building self-confidence.
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Facial Feature Dysmorphia
- Description: Obsession over specific facial features such as nose, lips, or eyes.
- Signs: Considering frequent plastic surgeries, avoiding photos, or excessive use of makeup.
- Risks: Surgical complications, financial strain.
- Overcoming: Counselling, joining support groups, and focusing on self-acceptance.
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Height Dysmorphia
- Description: Obsession over one's height, believing they're too short or too tall.
- Signs: Wearing height-altering shoes, slouching or overstretching.
- Risks: Back problems, low self-worth.
- Overcoming: Therapy, joining support groups, and practicing posture exercises.
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Teeth Dysmorphia
- Description: Obsession over teeth appearance, alignment, or color.
- Signs: Frequent dental visits, excessive teeth whitening, or avoiding smiling.
- Risks: Tooth enamel damage, gum problems.
- Overcoming: Dental consultations, therapy, and practicing self-love.
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Voice Dysmorphia
- Description: Obsession over the sound, pitch, or tone of one's voice.
- Signs: Avoiding speaking, constantly recording oneself.
- Risks: Social isolation, throat strain.
- Overcoming: Voice coaching, therapy, and accepting one's unique voice.
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Age Dysmorphia
- Description: Obsession over looking older or younger than one's age.
- Signs: Excessive anti-aging or youthful treatments, avoiding age-related events.
- Risks: Health complications from treatments, isolation.
- Overcoming: Therapy, joining age-positive groups, and focusing on holistic well-being.
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Digit Dysmorphia
- Description: Obsession over the appearance of fingers or toes.
- Signs: Avoiding handshakes, wearing gloves, or hiding feet.
- Risks: Social anxiety, self-esteem issues.
- Overcoming: Therapy, joining support groups, and practicing self-acceptance.
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Genital Dysmorphia
- Description: Obsession over the appearance of genitalia.
- Signs: Avoiding intimate relationships, considering unnecessary surgeries.
- Risks: Surgical complications, relationship issues.
- Overcoming: Therapy, medical consultations, and building self-confidence.
Understanding these lesser-known forms of body dysmorphia is crucial for early detection and intervention. If you or someone you know exhibits signs of these conditions, seeking professional help is essential. Remember, everyone deserves to feel comfortable and confident in their own skin.
