Feeling suicidal

Because BDD can cause high levels of distress and can leave people feeling hopeless there is very sadly a high suicide rate. Surveys of people with BDD attending a specialist clinic show about 25% have attempted suicide in the past. Another survey suggests that about 0.3% of people with BDD commit suicide each year.

We understand that people with BDD can find life very difficult. The important thing to remember is that BDD is a treatable problem from which you can recover. It is often said that suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. BDD can last for many years, usually because the person with the problem has yet to try the right solution. The key is to suspend your judgment that nothing can be done to improve your situation and to commit to attacking your BDD – to reducing preoccupation, depression, shame and anxiety. It may take several months to overcome BDD, but it can be done and there most certainly is hope.

There is always help available. If you are feeling suicidal in the UK, contact your GP, attend Accident and Emergency, or telephone The Samaritans or SANE.