Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition where a person becomes intensely preoccupied with perceived flaws in their appearance—flaws that are minor or invisible to others. It can cause severe distress, disrupt daily life and really hold people back from fulfilling their potential.
“I spent hours in the mirror, trying to fix something no one else could even see. I felt ashamed and exhausted.”
BDD often begins in adolescence or early adulthood but frequently goes undiagnosed . People with BDD may become fixated on facial features, skin, hair, body shape or specific body parts. The distress this preoccupation causes is not about vanity—it’s a tormenting belief that something is wrong or ugly, despite reassurance. This can lead to compulsive behaviours like mirror-checking, excessive grooming, camouflaging, or seeking unnecessary cosmetic procedures.
Many people hide their distress out of shame, and others are misdiagnosed with depression, social anxiety, OCD, health anxiety or low self-esteem. BDD may cause people to avoid social situations, work, and intimacy. It can severely impair quality of life and, in some cases, lead to suicidal thoughts. Recognising it as a treatable condition is the first step toward recovery.
“Treating BDD requires delicacy and depth. With time, people begin to see themselves—and their lives—through a kinder, clearer lens.”
At Bloomfield Health, we begin with a sensitive and thorough assessment to understand your experience of BDD. We offer evidence-based treatments including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) adapted specifically for BDD, often involving exposure and response prevention (ERP). Where appropriate, medication such as SSRIs may be recommended. Our clinicians help you reduce unhelpful behaviours, challenge distorted beliefs, and build a more compassionate relationship with your body and self. We can also work closely with GPs, dermatologists or other involved clinicians to ensure cohesive care.
No. BDD involves obsessive and distressing thoughts that interfere significantly with daily functioning—it’s far more than everyday body dissatisfaction which many people experience.
In people experiencing BDD, the self-perceived flaw in their appearance is often invisible or minor to others. The distress comes from how you think about and processes appearance, not the actual feature. People living with more obvious visible differences in their appearance (e.g., people who have had a mastectomy, significant facial scarring, visible birth marks etc.) can also experience severe distress about their appearance and we can help with this too.
Yes. BDD often coexists with low self-worth, perfectionism, and past trauma or bullying.
CBT tailored to BDD is the most effective treatment. It helps reduce obsessional thinking, distress and compulsive behaviours, and can really improve someone’s quality of life.
Not necessarily. With treatment, many people experience significant improvement in symptoms and quality of life.
We strongly advise against it. Cosmetic procedures rarely help and may worsen the psychological symptoms of BDD. Psychological support is the recommended treatment.
Potentially, yes. SSRIs are often used alongside therapy and can reduce obsessive thinking and anxiety.
You’re not alone. Many people with BDD feel ashamed. We offer a non-judgemental, confidential space to start the conversation.
We are registered by the Care Quality Commission (CQC),
the independent regulator of health and social care in England.
