News

E-Helpline Volunteers Needed!

Come and join us! We are looking for new volunteers to support our E-Helpline service. This is a really rewarding role, with the opportunity to make a difference and provide crucial advice, support and guidance to those suffering with BDD.

The E-Helpline

The BDD Foundation’s email support service offers guidance for anyone affected by BDD or concerned about a loved one. We are the only email support project specifically for BDD in the UK, providing high-quality information, treatment options, and a non-judgmental space to discuss symptoms. Run by our Helpline Manager, Helpline Coordinator and a team of dedicated volunteers, the service offers empathetic support and signposting to resources tailored to individual needs.

The role of Volunteer

The key tasks carried about by volunteers include:

  • Responding to questions and concerns of individuals that email the service
  • Offering a compassionate, understanding and safe online space for those struggling
  • Identifying other sources of support both within and outside of the charity
  • Working within the policies set by the BDD Foundation
  • Attendance of ongoing training and development sessions

Skills and Qualities

For this role, it’s important to have a good understanding of BDD and the impact it has. We look for individuals with a non-judgmental attitude, empathy and understanding, and strong written communication skills. Since the role operates remotely, we are also looking for individuals with a good level of IT literacy and confidence using a web based email system.

Training and induction will be provided. We require a minimum time commitment of 2.5 hours per week on a rota basis.

How to Apply

Download the Application Form below, and send completed applications to christian@bddfoundation.org by 12 midday on 7th March 2025

For any questions about the role, please contact christian@bddfoundation.org

BDD-Foundation-General-Volunteers-FormDownload

Applications will be reviewed and responded to by mid -March 2024

Please note – due to insurance reasons, this opportunity is open to those aged 18+, based in the UK and is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

Flora’s Recovery Story

“I now have self-compassion and know I am worthy of happiness and a fulfilling life.”

I first contacted the BDD Foundation after realising that for my entire adult life of 20+ years, I had been suffering from BDD. I have always had a debilitating preoccupation with my perceived flaws, but had never approached the reality of potentially having BDD, due to not feeling ill enough to have it and not wanting to face the fear of accepting it and dealing with it.

When I first reached out for support, it was after 4 months of self-sabotaging, convincing myself I didn’t have BDD and wasn’t worthy of recovery. None of my friends or family understood or knew how to support me, and I had no idea how to navigate it. But I was at the point of not wanting to live a life of complete and utter destruction anymore, and knew something had to change. I felt completely alone, like a freak, helpless, hopeless and at a complete loss with life with no way out. My safety behaviours were dictating my life and I couldn’t escape the grips of BDD.

But, after finding the BDD Foundation online, I took the hugely scary step of attending the Zoom support groups, off camera and silent during the sessions. But hearing people’s identical feelings and experiences reassured me that I wasn’t alone. The BDD Foundation offered a 20-week, CBT-based structured support group (now known as the Overcoming BDD Programme) which I applied for and attended, and it was life-changing.

It was a small group led by facilitators who had lived experience of BDD, and we explored our past experiences that have shaped us developing BDD and learnt some incredibly transformational CBT-based practises, such as the Big I and Little I, the vicious flower, exposure exercises and behavioural experiments, Theory A vs Theory B, exploring personal qualities, and self-compassion – which was the turning point for me in being able to recover.

If it wasn’t for the help of the BDD Foundation, I would not have been able to value myself for who I am rather than based on my appearance, and I would never have been able to realise that the problem was the way I thought about my body, not my body itself. Thanks to the BDD Foundation and my recovery, I now appreciate myself for who I am, the energy I bring to life, and the qualities I have that make me who I am, rather than place all my self-worth and value in the way my body looks.

This is me, having a professional photoshoot done on holiday, with quite a few spectators… living my life, enjoying being present, in my ‘broken mirror’ dress that I made myself as an empowering take on the ‘broken mirror’ metaphor of the distorted view I had of my body.

I now don’t camouflage myself and instead, I wear (and even make) bright, vibrant and exciting clothes that make me feel good. I now go out to social events and enjoy them and can be present, rather than avoiding them and isolating myself away from everyone to avoid being seen. I now have self-compassion and know I am worthy of happiness and a fulfilling life, regardless of what I look like. And thanks to the BDD Foundation, I have the coping mechanisms and toolkit to be able to not let BDD overcome me when the thoughts come creeping back.

I have also gained the confidence to share my experiences and took part in the Beating BDD podcast, as well as participating as a volunteer in a self-compassion exercise at a BDD Foundation Conference. I would say that the most impactful thing I have gained from the BDD Foundation is knowing that recovery is possible and will always be worth it.

Volunteer Peer Facilitators Needed

Come and join us! We are looking for new peer facilitators to support the delivery of Cycle 9 of the Overcoming BDD Programme

About the Project

The Overcoming BDD Programme is a 20-week online, peer-led, self-help programme developed by experts Professor David Veale and Dr. Rob Willson. It combines CBT techniques with peer-led support to help individuals (18+) overcome BDD. Following structured phases, volunteer facilitators with lived experience provide a safe, supportive space for recovery. Participants learn practical CBT strategies to reduce symptoms, combat isolation, and build long-term recovery practices.

About the role

We are looking for 3 new volunteers to co-facilitate the online sessions and guide participants through the 20 week programme. For this role, it’s important to have a very good understanding of BDD and its impact. We’re looking for volunteers with strong facilitation skills, empathy and the ability to make others feel welcome and comfortable.

The time commitment is 2.5 hours per week (evening), for 20 weeks (May 2025 – October 2025), plus 2 training sessions before the role commences. We invite applications from people with direct/ indirect lived experience of BDD, or direct lived experience of a related condition, as well as people who have received CBT and who have skills in group facilitation or peer-support.

This is a unique and rewarding role, with the opportunity to support and guide individuals through the 20 week group programme. You will have the chance to work alongside some amazing facilitators who have previously delivered the programme, and develop your own skills in peer support.⁠

How to apply

Please submit a CV and a personal statement (max 600 words) to gem@bddfoundation.org which highlights the following:

  • Your (direct/indirect) experience with BDD or a related condition
  • Why you would like to apply for this position
  • Your relevant experience
  • The relevant skills and qualities you have for this role

Please submit your CV and personal statement to gem@bddfoundation.org by 12 midday on 3rd March 2025

Please note, this post is open to those based in the UK, age 18+ and is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

Queer Male Research Participants Needed!

Participate in a research study with UCL investigating patterns of online dating app use and body image among queer men

Participate Here

Participation will involve:

  • Completing a 15 minute anonymous online survey

Seeking participants:

  • Age 18+
  • Speak English
  • Have a smartphone
  • Cisgender male
  • Identify as queer

If you are interested in participating, please follow the link or contact: amber.korde.22@ucl.ac.uk / nicholas.carragher.22@ucl.ac.uk

Participate Here

January Community Fundraisers

We’ve kicked off the year with some amazing involvement from our community who are kindly fundraising for us and supporting us to raise both funds and awareness about BDD. Find out more!⬇️

🌟 Scarlett’s Marathon Fundraiser 🌟

We want to extend a huge thank you to our incredible community fundraiser, Scarlett, who will be running the London Marathon this year after securing an individual ballot place. We are so grateful that she has chosen to support the BDD Foundation as she takes on this amazing challenge. Scarlett’s decision to run for us is especially meaningful, as it comes following her own battles with BDD. Thank you, Scarlett, for raising vital awareness and funds. Support Scarlett in her amazing efforts here.

🌟 Nadia’s Everest Journey 🌟

We’d like to express our heartfelt thanks to Nadia, who recently completed the incredible feat of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro as part of her mission to summit Everest. This inspiring journey is dedicated to the memory of her sister. We are so grateful that Nadia has chosen to support the BDD Foundation along the way, raising vital awareness and funds. Her determination and resilience are truly inspiring. Thank you, Nadia, for your incredible support – we’re with you every step of the way!

Research Participants Needed!

Participate in a research study with the University of Derby exploring the lived experience of individuals with BDD, both generally and with a focus on the Covid Pandemic

Participation will involve:

  • An interview on your lived experience of BDD, both generally and during the Covid Pandemic.
  • Interviews will take place online and will last anywhere from 45-90 minutes

Seeking participants who:

  • Age 18+
  • Fluent in English
  • Participants must have been diagnosed with; treated for; or identified as experiencing Body Dysmorphic Disorder, which they first developed either before or during the Covid Pandemic
  • BDD is not secondary to another primary diagnosis, such as major depression

If you are interested in participating, please contact the researcher on s.mcellistrim1@unimail.derby.ac.uk

We’re Recruiting New Volunteers

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with us!

We’re excited to be expanding our volunteer base and are currently recruiting for a variety of roles across our projects and services.

Below, you’ll find more details about each project, the available roles, how to apply, and who to contact if you have any questions. Whether you have a few hours to spare or are looking for a more regular commitment, there is lots to get involved with across the charity.

If you wish to apply for more than one role, please indicate this in your application and we will take this into consideration when shortlisting applications.

Volunteer Peer Facilitators – Overcoming BDD Programme

About the Project

The Overcoming BDD Programme is a 20-week online, peer-led, self-help programme developed by experts Professor David Veale and Dr. Rob Willson. It combines CBT techniques with peer-led support to help individuals (18+) overcome BDD. Following structured phases, volunteer facilitators with lived experience provide a safe, supportive space for recovery. Participants learn practical CBT strategies to reduce symptoms, combat isolation, and build long-term recovery practices.

About the role

We are looking for 3 new volunteers to co-facilitate the online sessions and guide participants through the 20 week programme. For this role, it’s important to have a very good understanding of BDD and its impact. We’re looking for volunteers with strong facilitation skills, empathy and the ability to make others feel welcome and comfortable.

The time commitment is 2.5 hours per week, for 20 weeks (May 2025 – October 2025), plus 2 training sessions before the role commences. We invite applications from people with direct/ indirect lived experience of BDD, or direct lived experience of a related condition, as well as people who have received CBT and who have skills in group facilitation or peer-support.

This is a unique and rewarding role, with the opportunity to support and guide individuals through the 20 week group programme. You will have the chance to work alongside some amazing facilitators who have previously delivered the programme, and develop your own skills in peer support.⁠

How to apply

Please submit a CV and a personal statement (max 600 words) to gem@bddfoundation.org which highlights the following:

  • Your (direct/indirect) experience with BDD or a related condition
  • Why you would like to apply for this position
  • Your relevant experience
  • The relevant skills and qualities you have for this role

Please submit your CV and personal statement to gem@bddfoundation.org by 12 midday on 17th February 2025

Please note, this post is open to those based in the UK, age 18+ and is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

E-Helpline Volunteers

About the Service

The BDD Foundation’s email support service offers guidance for anyone affected by BDD or concerned about a loved one. We are the only email support project specifically for BDD in the UK, providing high-quality information, treatment options, and a non-judgmental space to discuss symptoms. Run by our Helpline Manager, Helpline Coordinator and a team of dedicated volunteers, the service offers empathetic support and signposting to resources tailored to individual needs.

About the role

We are looking for 4 new volunteers to support on the E-helpline. The key tasks carried about by volunteers include:

  • Responding to questions and concerns of individuals that email the service
  • Offering a compassionate, understanding and safe online space for those struggling
  • Giving high quality, tailored and accessible information about BDD, recommended treatments and how to access these
  • Identifying other sources of support both within and outside of the charity
  • Attendance of ongoing training and development sessions

For this role, it’s important to have a good understanding of BDD and the impact it has. We look for individuals with a non-judgmental attitude, empathy and understanding, and strong written communication skills. Since the role operates remotely, we are also looking for individuals with a good level of IT literacy and confidence using a web based email system.

Training and induction will be provided. We require a minimum time commitment of 2.5 hours per week on a rota basis.

How to apply

Download the Application Form below, and send completed applications to christian@bddfoundation.org by 17th February 2025.

BDD-Foundation-General-Volunteers-Form

Please note, this post is open to those based in the UK, age 18+ and is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

Schools Project Volunteers

About the Project

The BDD Foundation, in partnership with Maudsley Hospital, has recently relaunched our Schools Project to help educators identify and support adolescents with BDD. As an early intervention programme, it aims to improve understanding and ensure timely support.

Guided by clinicians, volunteers have been delivering in-person workshops in South London schools. To better meet schools’ needs, we are now evolving the programme to offer virtual online sessions, making training more accessible. Workshops cover BDD, appearance anxiety, spotting signs, approaching conversations, and accessing support for students and their families.

About the role

We are looking for volunteers to help us expand and deliver our Schools Project, a vital initiative aimed at improving understanding of BDD in education and ensuring students receive the support they need. As a Schools Project Volunteer, you will be supported to reach out to schools in your local area on behalf of the BDD Foundation, introducing the programme and encouraging participation. You will then deliver training sessions – either in person or online, depending on the school’s preference, to equip staff with the knowledge to identify BDD, support students, and facilitate access to treatment.

We are looking for individuals with:

  • Lived experience of BDD (personal or as a carer for a loved one)
  • Strong understanding of BDD signs and symptoms
  • Experience in training, public speaking, group facilitation, or professional presentations (desirable)
  • Clear communicator, well-organised, and passionate about early mental health intervention

How to apply

Please submit a CV and a personal statement (max 600 words) to gem@bddfoundation.org which highlights the following:

  • Your (direct/indirect) experience with BDD
  • Why you would like to apply for this position
  • Your relevant experience
  • The relevant skills and qualities you have for this role

Please submit your CV and personal statement to gem@bddfoundation.org by 12 midday on 17th February 2025

Please note, this post is open to those based in the UK, age 18+ and is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

Peer Support Group Volunteers

About the Service

Our online support groups play an important role, alongside treatment, in recovering from and managing BDD. They provide a safe environment where people can talk openly about their BDD, as well as giving support and encouragement to others. Many attendees find comfort in shared experience, knowing they are not alone, and hearing stories from individuals at different stages of their recovery. We are expanding our support groups to offer additional sessions on a new day/ time to reach even more individuals in need.

About the role

For this role, it’s important to have a very strong understanding of BDD and its impact. We’re looking for volunteers with excellent listening skills, the ability to make others feel welcome and comfortable, and empathy. We particularly encourage applications from individuals with lived experience of BDD, since these groups are peer led – an approach we have found to be particularly effective in supporting those experiencing BDD.

Training and induction will be provided. We ask for a minimum commitment of 1.5-3 hours per month.

How to apply

Please submit a CV and a personal statement (max 600 words) to gem@bddfoundation.org which highlights the following:

  • Your (direct/indirect) experience with BDD
  • Why you would like to apply for this position
  • Your relevant experience
  • The relevant skills and qualities you have for this role

Please submit your CV and personal statement to gem@bddfoundation.org by 12 midday on 17th February 2025

Please note, this post is open to those based in the UK, age 18+ and is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

Natalia’s Recovery Story

“Recovery is not linear, but instead a process involving ups and downs and at times you may notice that the BDD is still trying to rear its head as you continue to work on yourself.”

My BDD began when I was around 14 with a preoccupation about my teeth. I remember having my photos taken, and my mum asking me to smile but being reluctant as I didn’t want to show my teeth. The defect was not visible to others and UK dentists refused to give me braces. My mum gave into my preoccupation and helped me get braces privately. I thought I fixed the issue but I then developed a new preoccupation with my buttocks. I fixated on the idea that if I had the buttocks that I considered desirable then I would be “lovable” and “good enough”. I was convinced that the ones I had made me “ugly” and “unattractive”.

In 2021 I experienced a breakdown of a relationship. At the same time, I discovered I had BDD. After learning I have BDD, the people I dated afterwards never understood my experience. I could not rely on my family for support, instead they exacerbated my symptoms. My safety seeking behaviours were out of control, I was constantly seeking reassurance from partners and comparing myself to other women. Engaging in those behaviours offered short term relief but it wasn’t long until I engaged in those behaviours again which fueled the BDD and made me feel worse.

I started my first course of CBT privately which was unsuccessful. In the sessions, we worked on the ‘cognitive’ component which wasn’t useful and involved a constant battle between me and the therapist, debating who was right and who was wrong – which was very counterproductive.

At the time I felt hopeless that things would ever get better and that I’d be able to maintain a healthy relationship. In desperation, I found the BDD Foundation, where I joined some online support groups with individuals who experienced similar thoughts and feelings. It was comforting to know I wasn’t alone, and I felt I was part of a community. I listened to other people’s stories but I was also able to share my own experiences of BDD, and felt heard, seen and understood. Coming to these groups, I felt I could be myself without any judgement. Individuals with BDD often experience intense shame, but in the support groups, I felt free from that shame and less concerned about how others perceived me. 

Soon after that, I also started the Overcoming BDD Programme, which taught me various tools based on CBT techniques, to manage BDD. I was highly resistant to any treatment for a long time and found it hard to implement the tools I was learning.

I took a break from treatment and in 2023 I attended the BDD Foundation conference where I had an opportunity to learn more about BDD and services which offered treatment. I found the various talks very useful and especially the “Unfair to Compare” talk by Professor David Veale and Dr Rob Willson. I found that I could relate to this talk the most as I really struggled with comparison and was comparing myself constantly as part of my BDD. I took away some useful resources namely an inspiring book called “Trauma-Informed and Embodied Approaches to Body Dysmorphic Disorder” by Nicole Schnackenberg, which inspired me to start some trauma based therapy privately which I found extremely helpful.

I decided to give CBT another try and completed a full course for BDD through the NHS, focusing on changing my behaviours. Through the sessions, I learned about the cycle of BDD, identified my behaviours, and worked on reducing them gradually with behavioural experiments, which helped challenge negative predictions and ease my anxiety.

These were the same tools that were taught on the Foundation’s Overcoming BDD programme, and it was helpful to build on what I learnt on this programme. I found the Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) process valuable as it helped with gradually decreasing anxiety in situations that provoked it. The ERP helped me to re-engage in activities that I avoided due to my BDD and it helped me to reclaim my life. The process takes time, and involves repeated exposure until the anxiety has subsided. Behavioural experiments are helpful as they let you test your predictions and often reveal that the feared outcomes rarely occur.

I was able to get my life back, I became more engaged socially and joined a local hiking group. I am now better at shifting my attention and focusing externally when in social situations. I also met my partner through the hiking group. I have been focusing on building areas that do not involve appearance and instead I am focusing on developing interests and passions. I now volunteer for the BDD Foundation, both on the E-helpline and as a co-facilitator on the Overcoming BDD Programme.  

Volunteering for the BDD foundation has been an extremely positive experience. It has given me a sense of purpose. Helping other people has also made me value myself for aspects outside of my appearance such as dedication, caring nature and kindness. Each time I volunteer, I come away with a sense of accomplishment that I’ve helped someone in need. Volunteering for the BDD Foundation has allowed me to focus more on my passions, interests, and meaningful areas of life.

Once I recognised that I had BDD, the BDD Foundation has been there for me each step of the way. From initially joining support groups which helped me feel less alone, to the Overcoming BDD Programme which introduced me to the tools I needed for recovery, to enabling me to be a greater part of the community by giving back as a passionate volunteer facilitator on the same programme I went through myself.

My final message is to persist and don’t give up – recovery is not linear, but instead a process involving ups and downs and at times you may notice that the BDD is still trying to rear its head as you continue to work on yourself. Recovery may require you to be intentional in consciously implementing the tools you’ve learnt in treatment.

Run the London Marathon 2026 for BDDF

Register Interest

You can now apply to be part of Team BDDF for the 2026 London Marathon! 

For the first time in history, the BDD Foundation has secured official charity places in the TCS London Marathon in April 2026. By running for us, you’ll be part of something truly special – our very first team representing the Foundation in this incredible event.

Whether you’re a seasoned runner or taking on your first marathon, the London Marathon is an unforgettable experience and a true bucket list challenge. You’ll be inspired by thousands of supporters cheering you on every step of the way and raising money for a very small but growing charity. 

As a member of Team BDDF, you’ll receive a fundraising pack, a running top to wear on the day, and full support from our staff and volunteer team to help you along the way.

To secure your place, here’s what we ask:

  • Registration fee: £60
  • Sponsorship target: £2,000 (excluding Gift Aid)

With limited charity places available and high demand, we will select runners based on their connection to the cause and their realistic fundraising potential. As part of the application process, we’ll ask you questions to understand your motivation and fundraising plans to ensure we can offer places to those best suited for this opportunity.

We’d be thrilled to have you on Team BDDF, so don’t wait – register your interest today. Complete our registration form below, and we’ll be in touch to confirm if you’ve secured one of our limited spaces. Let’s go!

Register Interest

Male Research Participants Needed

Men, we need your help to help other men!

Take Part

Participate in research carried out by University of Worcester focused on improving healthcare organisations’ outreach resources to better reach men, helping them seek and access support for body image related conditions.

More information:

This study aims to gather men’s ideas of how eating/exercise/body image healthcare resources can be engaging for men. Your ideas will support the next phase: a co-design of guidelines to inform future resource development.

Seeking participants who:

  • Identify as male
  • Aged 18

Follow the link to take part, or contact mycg1_22@uni.worc.ac.uk to find out more 📩

Take Part

The Body Dysmorphic Disorder Foundation. Charity no. 1153753.