What is body dysmorphic disorder?
Body dysmorphic disorder is when a person is overly concerned with their appearance while focusing on their supposed flaws. It is related to obsessive compulsive disorder. Kids and teens suffering from body dysmorphic disorder would spend a lot of their time worrying, trying to change or hide their appearance. They would fix on things they consider flaws which may not even be noticed by others.
What are the signs and symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder?
Body dysmorphic disorder is most common in teens and preteens. Such kids may-
- Hide body parts they feel insecure about
- Use heavy makeup to hide their perceived flaws
- Excessively groom their hair
- Try to lighten dark skin or tan pale skin
- Be extremely unhappy with their appearance
- Insist on having cosmetic procedures to improve their flaws
- Say negative things about their appearance
- Pick their skin
- Seek constant reassurance about their appearance
Is my child at risk of body dysmorphic disorder?
There are certain social and family situations which put a child at risk of development of body dysmorphic disorder. Such children are more likely to develop body dysmorphic disorders. Such factors include:
- Other members of family have had obsessive compulsive disorder in the past or presently
- There is body dysmorphic disorder in other members of family
- The child is bullied about body shape, weight or appearance
- The child has low self-esteem
- The child suffers from depression
- The child has anxiety disorders
- The child suffers from social anxiety
- The teenager has undergone recent physical changes in appearance
- The teenager has difficulty managing emotions
- There is previous childhood neglect and abuse.
How to manage body dysmorphic disorder?
Treatment for body dysmorphic disorder includes both therapy and medium.
- Cognitive behavioural therapy: TThis is focused on relieving anxiety and learning to manage worry and fear.
- Medicines: Medication which can boost or release serotonin can also be used for the great of body dysmorphic disorder.
How should I support my child suffering from body dysmorphic disorder?
It is important to support your child as body dysmorphic disorder may be a depressing and debilitating disorder at times.
- Be patient with your child.
- Learn how to respond to their questions. Instead of brushing away their concerns, genuinely address them.
- Limit screen time as social media may set unrealistic beauty standards.
- Encourage family time and spend more time together.
- Encourage other interests and hobbies of the child.
