Body Dysmorphia (Body Dysmorphic Disorder)
Overview
Body dysmorphia, or Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), is a mental-emotional condition characterised by persistent preoccupation with perceived flaws in physical appearance — often minor or invisible to others[1].
These thoughts can become distressing and interfere with daily life, relationships, and self-esteem. Individuals may engage in repetitive behaviours such as mirror checking, comparing themselves with others, or seeking reassurance about their looks[2].
BDD can affect people of any gender and often co-occurs with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, or obsessive-compulsive traits[3]. While psychotherapy and medical support are essential, Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Healthcare (TCIH) approaches can play a valuable role in rebuilding body awareness, improving self-acceptance, and restoring emotional balance[4].
Common Causes and Contributing Factors
The causes of body dysmorphia are complex, involving a mix of psychological, cultural, and biological factors [3,5]. Common contributors include:
- Perfectionism and self-criticism – chronic dissatisfaction with appearance or performance
- Early trauma or bullying – experiences of shame or criticism about the body
- Cultural and media pressures – idealised beauty standards reinforcing negative comparison
- Neurochemical imbalance – particularly involving serotonin and dopamine regulation
- Family or genetic vulnerability – links with anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders
- Stress or emotional neglect – leading to disconnection from embodied self-awareness
Signs and Symptoms
- Preoccupation with perceived flaws in appearance
- Excessive grooming or mirror checking
- Avoidance of social situations or being photographed
- Frequent comparison with others
- Anxiety, shame, or depression related to body image
- Difficulty accepting compliments or reassurance
- Obsessive focus on one or more body parts (skin, nose, hair, weight, etc.)
The intensity of symptoms varies — some people function well but struggle internally, while others experience significant emotional distress or isolation [2,3].
Holistic and TCIH Approaches
TCIH approaches help reconnect mind and body, encouraging embodiment, emotional regulation, and self-compassion. They complement psychological therapies by addressing the somatic and energetic dimensions of self-image and self-worth. You may wish to explore:
- Mindfulness and Meditation – cultivate non-judgmental awareness of thoughts and sensations, reducing rumination and self-criticism[6].
- Yoga Therapy – promotes reconnection with the body through gentle movement and breath, improving interoception and acceptance[7].
- Somatic Therapy – releases stored shame and anxiety through body-based awareness practices.
- Art Therapy – enables safe, creative expression of inner emotions and self-perception[4,8].
- Cognitive-Behavioural Counselling – supports reframing distorted thinking and developing healthier self-talk[5].
- Energy Healing / Reiki – helps clear energetic stagnation associated with low self-esteem and negative self-image.
- Massage or Bodywork – nurtures positive body awareness through safe, compassionate touch, helping individuals feel grounded and reconnected to their physical form.
Self-Care & Lifestyle Practices
Alongside therapy, small shifts in daily life can strengthen self-compassion and resilience:
- Practise daily mindfulness or gratitude for body functionality rather than appearance
- Limit exposure to unrealistic media images and comparison triggers
- Engage in joyful, non-competitive movement (e.g. walking, dancing, yoga)
- Journal emotional patterns and triggers to build self-awareness
- Surround yourself with supportive, non-judgmental people
- Practise positive affirmations or mirror-work with kindness
- Focus on nourishment and rest rather than punishment or control
When to Seek Professional Support
Seek professional help if body image concerns dominate your thoughts, interfere with relationships, or lead to depression or self-harm.
A multidisciplinary approach combining psychological therapy, medical guidance, and holistic support can foster healing at all levels. Verified SoulAdvisor practitioners in mindfulness, yoga therapy, somatic work, or art therapy can collaborate with mental health professionals to support body–mind reconnection and self-acceptance.
Therapies that may assist body Dysmorphia (Body Dysmorphic Disorder):
References
1. Body dysmorphic disorder. Wikipedia; 2025.
2. Phillips KA, et al. Body dysmorphic disorder: Clinical features and current treatment strategies. Harvard Review of Psychiatry; 2017.
3. Veale D, & Neziroglu F. Body dysmorphic disorder: A review of current evidence and future directions. Clinical Psychology Review; 2020.
4. Bafghi ZR, Ahmadi A, Mirzaee F, & Ghazanfarpour M. The effect of mindfulness-based art therapy (MBAT) on the body image of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): a randomized controlled trial. BMC Psychiatry; 2024.
5. Wilhelm S, et al. Cognitive-behavioural therapy for body dysmorphic disorder: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Behaviour Research and Therapy; 2019.
6. Jarry JL, & Cash TF. Mindfulness and acceptance interventions for body-image disturbance: A systematic review. Body Image; 2020.
7. Impett EA, Daubenmier JJ, & Hirschman AL. Minding the body: Yoga, embodiment, and well-being. Sexuality Research and Social Policy; 2006.
8. Ruiz-Mendoza L, & Alvarado G. Art-based mindfulness group therapy for women with body dysmorphic symptoms: A pilot randomized controlled trial. Body Image; 2022.
