Do I Have Body Dysmorphia? 13 Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Could I Have Body Dysmorphia? A Quick Self-Reflection Quiz

This brief quiz is based on common diagnostic criteria and clinical observations from the DSM-5-TR used to identify body dysmorphic disorder (BDD).⁴ It’s not a diagnostic tool, but it can help you reflect on whether your body image concerns may warrant further support from a mental health professional.

Instructions

For each statement, answer Yes or No.

1. Do you often worry about a specific part of your appearance that others say looks fine or don’t seem to notice?
2. Do you frequently check mirrors, photos, or reflective surfaces to look at this area of concern?
3. Do you avoid social situations, photos, or video calls because of how you feel about your appearance?
4. Do you spend more than an hour a day thinking about your appearance or trying to “fix” your flaw?
5. Have you tried to hide or cover up this part of your body with makeup, clothing, or accessories?
6. Do you seek frequent reassurance from others about how you look, but rarely feel reassured?
7. Have you seen multiple doctors, dermatologists, or plastic surgeons about this concern?
8. Have you ever felt hopeless, depressed, or had thoughts of self-harm related to your appearance?

Scoring

• 0–2 “yes” answers: You may have occasional appearance concerns, which are common.
• 3–5 “yes” answers: Your concerns might be affecting your quality of life. It may be helpful to talk to a therapist.
• 6+ “yes” answers: You may be experiencing signs consistent with body dysmorphic disorder. Consider seeking professional support.

Note: This quiz is inspired by the Body Dysmorphic Disorder Questionnaire (BDDQ) and clinical criteria in the DSM-5. It is for educational use only and is not a substitute for a professional diagnosis.

What Causes Body Dysmorphic Disorder?

The exact cause of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is not fully understood, but several risk factors⁵ are believed to contribute:

• Genetics: A family history of BDD, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or other mental health conditions may increase the risk.
• Brain chemistry: Imbalances in serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood and anxiety, may play a role.
• Trauma or bullying: Negative experiences, such as childhood trauma or being bullied for appearance, can increase the likelihood of developing BDD.
• Cultural factors: Societal pressures and unrealistic beauty standards in media can exacerbate body image concerns and may contribute to the development of BDD.

When Should You Seek Help?

If you’re experiencing any of the signs or symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), it’s important to know that you don’t have to manage it alone. While everyone has moments of insecurity or self-doubt, BDD can be overwhelming and may require professional support to manage.

Here are some signs that it’s time to seek help:

The Distress Affects Your Daily Life

If your preoccupation with your appearance is interfering with your ability to work, study, maintain relationships, or enjoy social activities, it’s a clear indication that your body image concerns may be more than just a passing insecurity.

Repetitive Behaviors Are Difficult to Control

If you find yourself unable to stop behaviors like mirror checking, skin picking, or seeking constant reassurance, and these actions are consuming a significant amount of time each day, it might be time to reach out for help.

Seeking Medical or Cosmetic Treatments Does Not Bring Relief

If you’ve tried multiple cosmetic procedures, seen various healthcare providers, or spent significant time and money trying to “fix” a perceived flaw, but continue to feel unsatisfied or worse, this is a signal that the issue is rooted in a deeper psychological concern, not a physical flaw.

Reassurance From Others Doesn’t Ease Your Anxiety

If loved ones consistently reassure you that you look fine or that your concerns are unfounded, but you continue to feel distressed, it may indicate the need for professional intervention. BDD is not about vanity—it’s a mental health issue that requires treatment.

Self-Harm or Suicidal Thoughts Arise

If you experience thoughts of self-harm or suicide due to your appearance or body image distress, it is critical to seek immediate support. These thoughts are a sign of the severe emotional toll BDD can have and should be addressed by a mental health professional right away.

How Is BDD Treated?

Seeking help is a positive step toward healing. Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) can be a challenging condition to manage on your own, but effective treatment options⁶ are available. The goal of treatment is to help people recognize and address the distorted thoughts and behaviors that fuel their distress, allowing them to improve their quality of life.

Common treatment approaches for BDD include:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive behavioral therapy helps people challenge distorted thoughts and behaviors related to their body image concerns. This evidence-based approach teaches patients to recognize and change negative thought patterns that fuel their distress. 

Medication

Medication can be a helpful part of treatment, particularly when someone also has symptoms of related disorders like anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), which often co-occur with BDD. Psychiatrists also commonly prescribe a class of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) to help manage these symptoms. While medication can provide relief from the emotional distress and obsessive behaviors associated with BDD, it’s usually most effective when combined with psychotherapy.

Support Groups

Participating in support groups can be beneficial for people struggling with BDD. Being able to share experiences with others who understand the challenges of living with BDD provides emotional support and a sense of community. These groups offer a safe space to discuss body image struggles and help people feel less isolated in their journey toward recovery.

Family Therapy & Education

BDD can significantly impact your relationships, making it incredibly helpful to involve family members in the treatment process. Family therapy helps your loved ones understand the condition and learn how to provide positive, supportive responses. Educating family members about the nature of BDD reduces misunderstandings and helps them better support your recovery journey.

Lifestyle Changes

Exercise, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques can help manage the anxiety and stress that often accompany BDD. Regular physical activity improves mood, boosts self-esteem, and reduces compulsive behaviors. Mindfulness practices such as meditation or deep breathing exercises help individuals manage intrusive thoughts and stay grounded in the present moment, rather than becoming fixated on appearance-related concerns.

Getting the Help You Deserve

If you recognize these signs in yourself, remember that BDD is a real and treatable condition: You’re not being vain, and you’re not alone in your struggle. 

Taking the step to acknowledge these symptoms shows incredible strength and self-awareness. Reaching out to a mental health professional who specializes in body image disorders or BDD can be life-changing. With the right support and treatment, you can find relief from the distressing thoughts and behaviors that have been controlling your life, and start to see yourself with greater compassion and clarity.

FAQs

Q. How is BDD different from low self-esteem or insecurity?

A. While many people experience occasional doubts about their appearance, BDD involves obsessive, uncontrollable thoughts about perceived flaws that consume hours each day and significantly interfere with daily functioning. Unlike general insecurity, BDD typically focuses on specific body parts and drives compulsive behaviors like excessive mirror checking, grooming rituals, or seeking multiple cosmetic procedures. The emotional distress is much more severe than typical self-esteem issues and can lead to social isolation, depression, and in severe cases, thoughts of self-harm.

Q. Am I insecure or do I have body dysmorphia?

A. While insecurity about appearance is common, BDD involves obsessive, overwhelming thoughts about perceived flaws that significantly interfere with your daily life, relationships, and functioning. If your appearance concerns consume hours of your day or cause you to avoid social situations, it may be more than typical insecurity.

Q. Do people with body dysmorphia realize they have it?

A. Many people with BDD are unaware of their condition and don’t recognize that their perception of their appearance is distorted. The shame and isolation associated with BDD makes it difficult to see that their concerns are excessive, and they often believe others notice their perceived flaws just as intensely as they do.

Q. Can you self-diagnose body dysmorphia?

A. You cannot reliably self-diagnose BDD, as it requires identifying complex patterns of thought and behavior that are difficult to recognize in yourself. While you may notice some symptoms, only a mental health professional can properly diagnose BDD, rule out other conditions, and recommend appropriate treatment.

Q. Is it body dysmorphia or dysphoria?

A. The correct term is “body dysmorphia” or “body dysmorphic disorder (BDD),” not “body dysphoria.”

Q. How is an eating disorder different from BDD?

A. Eating disorders primarily focus on weight and food intake, while BDD involves obsessive preoccupation with specific body parts or features like skin, nose, or hair that are unrelated to weight.

Q. How do I help a loved one showing signs of body dysmorphia?

A. Approach them with patience and empathy and avoid phrases like “it’s not a big deal” that minimize their concerns. Gently encourage professional help from a mental health specialist, offer to help them find a therapist, and provide emotional support while emphasizing that professional treatment is necessary for recovery.