Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition in which an individual spends a lot of time worrying about perceived flaws or defects in their appearance. However, these flaws are either minor or cannot be seen by others at all. Regardless, the individual may feel so ashamed, anxious, and embarrassed by these perceived flaws or defects that they will try to avoid specific social interactions or situations.

Body dysmorphic disorder affects both males and females and is most prevalent in teenagers and young adults, although individuals of any age can develop the disorder. Having BDD can have a dramatic impact on an individual's life and be extremely upsetting. Body dysmorphia is a serious mental illness; it certainly does not mean that the individual is self-obsessed or vain. There are a wide variety of signs and symptoms of body dysmorphia, including:

• A strong belief that you have a defect in your appearance that causes you to be deformed
• Being extremely preoccupied with a perceived flaw in appearance that appears minor to others, or can’t be seen at all
• Avoiding social situations and interactions
• The belief that others take special notice of your appearance in a negative way

These repetitive behaviors, excessive thoughts, and preoccupations with one’s appearance can become so time-consuming that they become difficult to control, and can actually end up causing major distress in an individual’s school, work, social life, or other areas of functioning.

In Understanding Body Dysmorphic Disorder in Teens: Causes, Treatment, Self-Help Tips, and Supporting Your Loved One we are going to look at:

• What is body dysmorphic disorder?
• Causes
• Treatment options
• Subtypes
• Body dysmorphia in teens
• Self-care tips
• Supporting a loved one
• Self-test
• Additional resources

If you have a child or loved one with body dysmorphic disorder, then look no further. This is the book for you. Scroll up and click Buy Now to listen today.