A psychiatrist has spoken out about a disorder of perception of one's own body
When browsing social media, some people compare their appearance to those they find more attractive. This can lead to the discovery of any shortcomings. If a person starts to constantly dwell on this, tries to correct something, for example, with the help of cosmetic procedures or surgical operations, but still remains dissatisfied with himself, it may indicate dysmorphophobia. This was told to "Izvestia" on January 23 "SberZdorovye" medical company psychiatrist Viktor Nurdaev.
According to the expert, dysmorphophobia, or body perception disorder, is a condition in which a person is excessively concerned about imaginary or minor defects in his or her appearance. According to research, it occurs in 1-2% of people worldwide and is often accompanied by anxiety, depression or social isolation.
"People with this disorder may spend hours looking at themselves in the mirror or, on the contrary, try to avoid any reflection so as not to see their 'defect'. They experience severe anxiety, because of which they may cancel appointments, avoid taking pictures, wear clothes that hide the "problem" area, or constantly compare themselves to others. For example, a person can spend up to 4-5 hours daily, looking at the pores on the face in the mirror, considering them too large, although objectively the skin looks absolutely normal," - said the doctor.
He noted that there are so-called anxiety zones that cause anxiety in people with dysmorphophobia. For example, on the head it is most often wrinkles, asymmetry of facial features, the shape of the nose or ears, gray hair, excessive growth or, conversely, lack of hair. As for the figure, it is often overweight, as well as the "wrong" shape of legs or arms.
"One of the features of the disorder is a constant desire to correct the "defect". This can be expressed in an excessive fascination with cosmetics, plastic surgery or filters in social networks. At the same time, the person is often dissatisfied with the result," Nurdaev added.
To make a diagnosis, a consultation with a psychiatrist is necessary. The doctor will question the patient in detail to find out how much concern about appearance goes beyond the norm and whether it affects daily life, such as a decrease in performance.
"If a person notices that despite attempts to 'improve' their appearance, their anxiety levels are not decreasing, it's a sign that the problem lies deeper. That is, external changes will not help if the root of the problem lies in the perception of the self," the psychiatrist added.
Treatment for this disorder is done with the help of cognitive behavioral therapy. It helps to change negative thoughts about one's appearance, to learn to cope with anxiety, to stop avoiding socializing and to develop the skill of accepting one's body as it is. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe medications, such as antidepressants.
"To reduce the risk of developing dysmorphophobia, it is advisable to limit the time spent on social media, especially on platforms that focus on appearance. For example, it is advisable for adults to spend no more than two hours a day on the Internet, while preschoolers and even teenagers are recommended to be on the Web no more than one hour a day. It is also important to learn to accept yourself as you are, and children and adolescents should be taught critical thinking in the perception of idealized images", - advised the doctor.
Earlier, on December 18, dermatovenerologist, cosmetologist of the chain of clinics "Semeynaya" Irina Marchenko told "Izvestia" about mistakes in face care in winter. According to her, regular use of sunscreen can contribute to premature aging of the skin under the influence of light. Therefore, before going outdoors, especially if a long walk is planned, it is recommended to check the UV level, she specified.
