Learn about the 5 signs that may indicate body dysmorphia and how to seek help for this mental health condition.
Often, the beauty standards imposed by society are unattainable . This causes great frustration for those who want to have the “perfect” face or body, but never manage to get there. And, with the unfair comparisons on social media these days, the situation is even worse.
Anyone who notices this problem needs to seek professional help quickly. “Body dysmorphia is a serious psychological disorder that can compromise not only mental health, but also physical health. Treatment with psychotherapy and, in some cases, medical supervision, is essential for the person to be able to rebuild a healthy relationship with their own image,” says psychologist Valeska Bassan, an expert in eating disorders.
Below, the expert shares 5 signs of body dysmorphia to watch out for:
Extreme concern with body details
One of the main signs of body dysmorphia is an obsession with specific parts of the body, such as the nose, skin, hair or weight. “The person tends to focus on a minimal or non-existent imperfection, which generates a high level of distress,” explains Valeska. This dissatisfaction can interfere with self-esteem and mental well-being, leading to extreme behaviors.
Constant comparisons with other people
People with this problem tend to compare themselves to others all the time. And the worst part is that, when this is done through social media, the person can end up comparing themselves to faces and bodies that don’t even really exist, modified by filters and edits.
Repetitive behaviors to “correct” appearance
Body dysmorphia often leads to compulsive behaviors, such as looking in the mirror several times a day, camouflaging body parts with clothes or makeup, and even seeking cosmetic procedures. “These behaviors can provide a temporary feeling of relief, but soon the dissatisfaction returns, feeding a vicious cycle,” says the psychologist.
Negative impact on social interactions
When body dysmorphia is more severe, it can even cause the person to isolate themselves and refuse invitations so they don’t have to leave the house and be seen by people. “They believe that others are always noticing what they consider to be a defect,” she explains. This isolation can lead to more serious cases of anxiety and depression.
Difficulty accepting compliments about appearance
Even when they receive compliments, people with body dysmorphia have difficulty accepting them. They often feel uncomfortable and believe that positive comments do not reflect reality. “This distrust of compliments reinforces the negative perception they have of themselves, making it difficult to improve their condition,” warns the specialist.