Body Dysmorphia Disorder (BDD)

Body dysmorphia disorder (BDD) is diagnosed when a person has a distorted perception of their body, believing they have a flaw or problem that isn’t real. They may feel shame, unworthy, or depression, and quality of life may be poor. Often diagnosed in adulthood, BDD usually begins in childhood/adolescence. It’s a serious issue in the LGBTQ community and can co-occur with gender dysphoria. It can help to. Treatments include psychiatric help, especially cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), medication, and finding a welcoming, supportive, and safe community. Factors contributing to BDD development include:

• Body dissatisfaction: Trevor Project found 87% of LGBTQ youth have a degree of BDD. Pansexual and questioning youth report highest rates of dissatisfaction, while gay youth report the lowest.
• Associated factors: Sensitivity to gay-related rejection, masking sexual orientation, pressures of physical appearance, coping mechanisms (excessive working out, eating disorders), lack of support.