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CORONAVIRUS

We understand that during this time many of us will be feeling increased anxiety, stress and uncertainty. The BDD Foundation trustees have put together a page of guidance, support and resource links to help you navigate your BDD recovery whilst the country is on lockdown. Please click here to access the information and to find out how to sign up to our online support groups.

What is
BDD?

The term Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) describes a disabling preoccupation with perceived defects or flaws in appearance. It can affect both men and women, and makes sufferers excessively self-conscious. They tend to check their appearance repeatedly and try to camouflage or alter the defects they see, often undergoing needless cosmetic treatments. Onlookers are frequently perplexed because they can see nothing out of the ordinary, but BDD causes devastating distress and interferes substantially with the ability to function socially.

Because I am Ugly: Body Dysmorphic Disorder and me

An animation by Salvador Maldonado and Caterina Monzani in collaboration with the BDD Foundation

Because I’m Ugly: Body Dysmorphic Disorder and Me explores the challenges of living with BDD, a disorder where a person becomes very preoccupied with one or more features in their physical appearance (e.g. nose, skin, hair, etc) and engages in time-consuming repetitive behaviours to fix or hide their perceived flaw/s (e.g. excessive mirror checking, grooming rituals, seeking reassurance etc). The animation is built around the real life testimony of Elias, a 17 years old boy with BDD, whose story shows us how the condition manifests. The animation follows his story from initial signs to full blown obsession and through his treatment and recovery process.

I can't leave the house...    Can't see my friends...    Unable to work...    Worried all day...    Anxious and depressed...    Ashamed...    Feeling disgusting...     Terrified of my reflection...     Desperate for reassurance...

I have BDD

Read the stories of people who have suffered from BDD and lived to tell the tale

Do you care for someone who suffers from BDD?

BDD box 1

BDD can put a lot of strain on those who live with or care for its sufferers. Here's some practical advice that could help you cope in this trying situation.

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What is the BDD Foundation?

Our charity is dedicated to the relief of suffering from BDD. It aims to advance education and understanding of BDD. It supports research into BDD and its treatments. Whilst we are based in the UK, our reach is international and we are proud to be the only charity for BDD in the world.