Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition characterized by a preoccupation with perceived flaws in one’s appearance. People with BDD often spend hours fixating on these perceived flaws, which can lead to significant distress and interfere with daily functioning. While there is no known cure for BDD, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be an effective treatment in managing symptoms and improving quality of life for individuals with this disorder.
What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a type of talk therapy that focuses on changing unhelpful or distorted thoughts and behaviors. It is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected and can influence each other. In CBT, therapists help individuals identify negative thoughts and beliefs and learn how to challenge and change them. This, in turn, can lead to changes in behavior and emotions.
How does CBT work for BDD?
CBT is a structured and goal-oriented therapy that typically involves weekly sessions with a therapist. In the case of BDD, CBT focuses on identifying and addressing the core beliefs and behaviors that contribute to the individual’s preoccupation with their appearance.
The first step in CBT for BDD is psychoeducation, where the therapist provides information about the disorder and helps the individual understand how their thoughts and behaviors are maintaining it. This can help reduce feelings of shame and isolation and increase motivation for treatment.
Next, the therapist works with the individual to identify their specific triggers for BDD symptoms. These triggers can be situations, thoughts, or behaviors that worsen the individual’s preoccupation with their appearance. For example, seeing a photo of themselves or being in a social setting where they feel judged may trigger BDD symptoms.
Once triggers are identified, the therapist and individual work together to challenge and modify negative thoughts and beliefs about their appearance. This may involve examining evidence for and against these thoughts and coming up with more balanced and realistic alternatives. For instance, someone with BDD may believe that their nose is too big, but through CBT, they may realize that their nose is actually within a normal range of size and shape.
In addition to changing negative thoughts, CBT also focuses on changing behaviors associated with BDD. This may include avoiding mirrors or constantly checking one’s appearance, which can reinforce negative thoughts and increase distress. Through CBT, individuals learn to gradually confront these behaviors and develop more adaptive coping strategies.
Another important aspect of CBT for BDD is exposure and response prevention (ERP). This involves gradually exposing the individual to situations that trigger their BDD symptoms while refraining from engaging in their usual compulsive behaviors (e.g., checking appearance in the mirror). This helps to break the cycle of negative thoughts and behaviors and allows the individual to learn that they can tolerate their anxiety without engaging in their rituals.
Is CBT effective for BDD?
Numerous studies have shown that CBT can be an effective treatment for BDD. One study found that 72% of individuals who received CBT saw a significant reduction in BDD symptoms after 12 weeks of treatment. Additionally, a long-term follow-up study found that 74% of individuals maintained their improvements in BDD symptoms two years after completing CBT.
CBT has also been found to improve comorbid conditions commonly found in individuals with BDD, such as depression and anxiety. By addressing the underlying thoughts and behaviors that contribute to BDD, CBT can also improve overall quality of life for individuals with this disorder.
Conclusion
Body dysmorphic disorder is a challenging condition that can significantly impact an individual’s life. However, cognitive behavioral therapy offers a structured and evidence-based approach to managing BDD symptoms. By addressing negative thoughts and behaviors, CBT can help individuals develop healthier ways of coping with their appearance concerns, leading to a better quality of life. If you or someone you know is struggling with BDD, seeking out a qualified therapist who specializes in CBT can be a crucial step towards managing this disorder.
