A glimpse into Body Dysmorphia: symptoms, triggers, and treatments

Do you wake up in the morning, look through your mirror, and all you can see or imagine is a distorted image of yourself, clouded by self-doubt and insecurities? you might be encountering Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), a mental health condition that wraps perceptions of beauty in a distorted lens.

This is a topic many of us have tangled with at some point and we’re here to remind you that you are not alone in this journey.

Let’s unravel the complexities of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) together, with warmth and understanding.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), also known as Body dysmorphia, is a mental health disorder that leads to torture over your looks. You may think certain parts of your body are imperfect. Interestingly, others may not see these flaws you highlight and magnify. As a result, you may have psychological distress that can interrupt your everyday life. Body dysmorphia is related to an obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), it is, however, often misdiagnosed. If you have it, you may feel an irresistible urge to carry out certain rituals or routines like checking a mirror or avoiding one.

BDD usually starts during your teenage or early adult years and usually goes undiagnosed. How then do you know if you are suffering from dysmorphia? Some symptoms are highlighted below.

Symptoms of BDD

* Worrying so much about a particular part of your body, especially your face.

* Spending lots of time in front of a mirror or avoiding one

* Spending a lot of time comparing your looks with others.

* Putting much effort in concealing flaws especially acne on your face, choosing clothes amongst others.

* Always ask others if you look okay.

BDD Triggers

Below are some triggers that impact dysmorphia

– Perfectionism

– Abuse/bullying

– Genetics

– Low self-esteem

– Depression/anxiety

If not quickly attended to, BDD can lead to depression, self-harm, and/or suicide.

BDD isn’t just about disliking certain parts of yourself; it’s a relentless struggle with self-image, one that can leave you feeling isolated and anxious. You can however overcome this feeling.

In our journey of embracing self-love, it’s crucial to explore holistic approaches that nurture both the mind and body. Natural medicine gently supports your mental well-being, offering a hand on this path to healing. From stress-relieving herbs like the Rida herbal teas to practices that promote inner peace, we’re here to remind you that healing is a journey worth embarking upon.

If you suspect you’re grappling with BDD, remember that reaching out for guidance is a step toward healing. A mental health professional can help you navigate these emotions and provide tools to build a healthier relationship with yourself.

Always remember, you are a masterpiece, a work of art, uniquely and intricately woven with beauty and strength. You are beautiful just as you are.

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Tope Akinyemi

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We are convinced that Health is Wealth and that you deserve to be healthy enough to live your best life daily. 

According to findings published in the Journal of Economics and Sustainable Development by Idowu Onisanwa in 2014, it was discovered that a high level of economic growth can be achieved by improving the health status of the populace, especially if the current status is at a low ebb. 

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