Body Dysmorphic Disorder: 8 Ways To Treat This Disease

Recognize Early Warning Signs

Most diseases are treatable when they are caught early. Body dysmorphic disorder is no different. Becoming familiar with the symptoms of the disease is a major step in determining when self-improvement, restrictive eating, and exercise habits become extreme or obsessive. Body dysmorphic disorder may affect men and women differently. While women are more likely to obsess over their skin, hair, clothing, facial features, and weight, men are more liable to focus on their muscle size or strength. These symptoms usually occur within the teenage years and should be caught before they encourage additional obsessive behavior.

Determine Other Existing Disorders

One of the best ways to treat body dysmorphic disorder is by determining which other disorders coexist, if any. Many psychiatric and even some medical conditions tend to be present at the same time. Many symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder, including anxiety, depression, excessive exercise, insomnia, and substance abuse, can be determined by an evaluation from a medical professional. The initial step in treating body dysmorphic disorder to is to address the underlying causes of the condition to reduce obsessive behavior associated with one’s appearance.