What is Body Dysmorphia?

Body dysmorphia is a mental health condition that affects one in every 50 people of all ages and men and women equally. It is characterized by a person's obsessive preoccupation with their body and appearance where one believes there are flaws or defects. Also known as body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), it’s classified as an anxiety disorder. There are a few online tests to take if you think you have BDD, including one from the Body Dysmorphic Disorder Foundation. While this ailment can be challenging to diagnose and treat, Magnolia Place, a highly-rated Greenville women’s wellness center, is available to provide services to help patients overcome body dysmorphia.

Symptoms of Body Dysmorphia

People with body dysmorphia experience excessive anxiety and distress about their appearance, which can lead to social isolation, depression, and other mental health issues diagnosable by a women’s healthcare practice Greenville NC. Some common symptoms of body dysmorphia include:

Obsessive self-scrutiny

Individuals with body dysmorphia often spend hours each day examining their appearance in mirrors, taking selfies, or looking for reassurance from others.

Repetitive behaviors

People with body dysmorphia may engage in repetitive behaviors such as grooming, checking, or comparing their appearance to others.

Avoidance behaviors

Individuals with body dysmorphia may avoid social situations, work, or school because of their appearance concerns. With the help of a women’s healthcare practice Greenville NC, you can overcome body dysmorphia.

What You Can Do to Combat Body Dysmorphia

If you or someone you know is struggling with body dysmorphia, several things can be done to help:

Seek professional help

A mental health professional at a Greenville women’s wellness center can help diagnose and treat body dysmorphia through therapy, medication, or a combination.

Challenge negative self-talk

Acknowledging negative self-talk and replacing it with more positive and realistic self-talk can help reduce anxiety and distress.

Practice self-care

Self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, and spending time with loved ones can help improve self-esteem and overall well-being.

Overcoming Body Dysmorphia with Magnolia Place

Body dysmorphia is a serious mental health condition that significantly impacts a person's quality of life. If you or someone you know struggles with body dysmorphia, seek professional help and engage in self-care activities to combat the condition. Remember, you are not alone, and there is hope for recovery. Don't hesitate to visit a local Greenville women’s wellness center for more information about mental health and overall well-being, or contact Magnolia Place today to schedule an appointment.