User:Mr. Ibrahem/Body dysmorphic disorder

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental disorder characterized by a preoccupation with one or more perceived flaw in one’s appearance that are not really noticeable by others. This results in repeated mirror checking, efforts to cover up the defect, picking at the defect, or excessive weight lifting. Generally 3 to 8 hours per day is spent on such activities and other areas of functioning are impaired. Complications may include suicidal thoughts or attempts.

It is believed to be due to a combination of genetic, cultural, social, and psychological factors. Risk factors include child abuse and a family history of the condition. It is categorized as a type of obsessive–compulsive disorder. Subtype include muscle dysmorphia, in which a person feels their muscles are too small and by proxy which involves preoccupation with a perceived flaw in someone else's appearance.

Cosmetic surgery does not generally improve symptoms. Counselling such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or metacognitive therapy may help. Medications of the SSRI type may result in improvements in 50 to 80% of people. Children may drop out of school due to the condition.

BDD is estimated to affect 0.7 to 2.4% of the population. It usually starts during late childhood. Males and females are affected at similar frequencies, though the muscle dysmorphia type generally only occurs in males. The condition was named in 1891 by Enrico Morselli and was first included in the DSM in the IIIrd edition in 1980.