Body Dysmorphia Statistics

When does a fixation on your appearance become body dysmorphic disorder (BDD)? Learn more about statistics and symptoms related to BDD.

Many people wish to change aspects of their appearance, whether it be a desire to be thinner, taller, or have a differently shaped nose. However, when a focus on perceived flaws becomes obsessive or stressful, these may be signs ofbody dysmorphic disorder (BDD).

BDD statisticsshow that symptoms of the condition can include spending hours grooming, checking mirrors or avoiding social situations that can trigger anxious feelings about one’s appearance. While seemingly minor or non-existent to outsiders, these perceived flaws can be intensely distressing and debilitating to someone with BDD. BDD facts and statistics reveal the widespread prevalence of this condition, as well as the groups it most commonly affects.

Prevalence of Body Dysmorphia

Theprevalence of body dysmorphic disorder,also known as body dysmorphia,is estimated to affectapproximately 2.0%of the general population, but the condition may bemore commonin some groups, such as teens, women or people with a pre-existing psychiatric condition. Asurveyof American adults found thatBDD prevalence may vary by gender, where women reported slightly higher rates of BDD than men. Several factors can also increase the risk of BDD, including experiencing childhood bullying, having a perfectionistic personality, or living with anothermental health condition, such asanxietyordepression.

BDD in Teens

The teenage years are marked by dramatic changes in physical appearance, which is likely why this developmental stage is when BDD symptoms tend to first emerge.BDD in teensappears to impact both boys and girls equally and often becomes more prevalent in thelater years of adolescence.

Body dysmorphic disorder in adolescencecan be particularly distressing, given that the teenage years are a vulnerable time of many changes. However, in many cases, BDD symptoms in adolescence are temporary and subside as the person gets older. It is vital to monitor and provide adequate psychological support to teens with BDD, as untreated cases maypersist into adulthood.

Body Dysphoria in Men & Women

BDD is experienced in both men and women, although women tend to have the condition atslightly higherrates. This slight discrepancy may be due to additional societal pressure placed on the importance of female appearance. However, the gender gap may be closing as men also feel increased pressure to maintain an attractive appearance. Interestingly, the presentation of BDD may bedifferent in men and women. For example, women may be more likely to become preoccupied with their skin, stomach, weight or body hair, while men tend to fixate on body build, thinning hair or genitals.

Muscle Dysphoria

Men, particularly those who participate in an elite sport or appearance-driven competitions such as body-building, may be more susceptible to asubtype of BDDcalledmuscle dysphoria.Muscle dysphoriarelates to specific obsessions and concerns surrounding body size, shape or muscle mass. Muscle dysphoriacan co-occurwithsocial anxiety disorderoreating disorders.

BDD and Co-Occurring Disorders

While BDD can be diagnosed and treated on its own, it shares many features and symptoms withmood disorders,obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)andeating disorders. People with BDD demonstrate obsessive, neurotic, anxious and controlling characteristics, which are common in other mental disorders. People with BDD often also experiencesocial anxietyrelated to how others will perceive their appearance, and may developanorexiaorbulimiain trying to alter their appearance. Inrare cases,altered visual perception in BDD may be a symptom ofschizophrenia, though these are typically considered separate disorders.

Experiencing BDD in combination with a mood, obsessive or eating disorder could be additionally distressing and requires a different treatment strategy than those used when BDD is experienced in isolation.

Body Dysmorphia and Suicidal Ideation

The intense distress and obsession that underliesbody dysmorphic disordercan lead tosuicidal ideation,as people with BDD may feel helpless in their ability to control their appearance. People with BDD are atincreased riskof suicide. Fortunately, early intervention andtreatmenthelp reduce this risk.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder and Cosmetic Surgery

The desire to alter or conceal one’s appearance is standard in cases of BDD. Perhaps unsurprisingly, BDDrates are reportedto be much higher in those who have receivedplastic surgery or cosmetic dental work. Although people with BDD may feel initial relief followingcosmetic surgery,appearance-related obsessions and anxietiesoften returnif the underlying, psychological causes of BDD are left untreated.

Statistics on Body Dysmorphic Disorder Treatment

The obsessions and distress experienced by those with BDD can be debilitating. With the support of medical professionals and loved ones, theprognosis of BDDcan include a return to a fulfilling and obsession-free life.BDD treatmentoften includes:

• Cognitive behavioral therapyto break existing thought patterns
• Learning new habits and ways of thinking
• Monitoring and avoiding triggering experiences
• Medication

While unlearning thought patterns and behaviors related to BDD can be challenging, these measures can significantly improve a person’s quality of life. This personal work is particularly important if a person lives withco-occurring BDD and addiction. If you or someone you care about is affected by BDD along with a substance use disorder,contact The Recovery Village todayfor more information about comprehensive treatment options.