Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Body Dysmorphic Disorder

What is Body Dysmorphic Disorder?

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition that causes a person to have a distorted view of their body. They may believe that they are ugly, deformed, or have other physical flaws that are not visible to others. BDD can cause significant distress and impairment in a person's life.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Body Dysmorphic Disorder: A Treatment Manual

by Katharine A. Phillips

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9480 KB
Print length	:	324 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

People with BDD often spend excessive time grooming or trying to hide their perceived flaws. They may avoid social situations or wear clothing that covers their body. They may also engage in compulsive behaviors, such as skin picking or hair pulling.

BDD is a serious mental health condition that can lead to significant distress and impairment. If you think you may have BDD, it is important to seek professional help.

What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that has been shown to be effective in treating BDD. CBT helps people to identify and challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs about their body. It also teaches them coping skills to manage their symptoms and improve their self-esteem.

CBT is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are all interconnected. If we have negative thoughts about ourselves, we are more likely to feel bad about ourselves and engage in behaviors that are harmful to our self-esteem. Conversely, if we have positive thoughts about ourselves, we are more likely to feel good about ourselves and engage in behaviors that are healthy for our self-esteem.

CBT therapists work with their clients to identify the negative thoughts and beliefs that they have about their body. They then help their clients to challenge these thoughts and beliefs and develop more positive and realistic thoughts. CBT therapists also teach their clients coping skills to manage their symptoms and improve their self-esteem. These coping skills may include relaxation techniques, exposure therapy, and social skills training.

How Can CBT Help People with BDD?

CBT can help people with BDD in a number of ways. First, CBT can help people to identify and challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs about their body. This can lead to a more realistic and positive view of their body. Second, CBT can teach people coping skills to manage their symptoms. These coping skills can help people to reduce their anxiety and depression, and improve their self-esteem. Third, CBT can help people to develop a more positive body image. This can lead to a greater sense of self-acceptance and well-being.

Is CBT Effective for Treating BDD?

CBT has been shown to be effective in treating BDD. In a study published in the journal "Behavior Therapy," researchers found that CBT was more effective than medication in reducing the symptoms of BDD. The study also found that CBT was more effective than medication in preventing relapse of BDD symptoms.

How Long Does CBT Take to Work?

CBT typically takes 12 to 16 weeks to complete. However, the length of treatment will vary depending on the individual client. Some clients may need more or less time to achieve their goals.

What are the Benefits of CBT?

CBT has a number of benefits, including:

* Helps people to identify and challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs * Teaches people coping skills to manage their symptoms * Helps people to develop a more positive body image * Reduces anxiety and depression * Improves self-esteem * Prevents relapse of symptoms

What are the Risks of CBT?

CBT is a safe and effective treatment for BDD. However, there are some potential risks, including:

* Discomfort when challenging negative thoughts and beliefs * Temporary increase in anxiety or depression * Need for additional support from family or friends

How to Find a CBT Therapist

If you are interested in finding a CBT therapist, you can ask your doctor for a referral. You can also search for CBT therapists in your area online. When you are looking for a CBT therapist, it is important to find someone who is experienced in treating BDD.

CBT is a safe and effective treatment for BDD. It can help people to identify and challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs about their body, teach them coping skills to manage their symptoms, and improve their self-esteem. If you are struggling with BDD, CBT may be a helpful treatment option for you.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Body Dysmorphic Disorder: A Treatment Manual

by Katharine A. Phillips

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9480 KB
Print length	:	324 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE