The mental health charity Mind describes the obsessive and compulsive thoughts and behaviours someone might be having which could signal they may be suffering with BDD.
These signs include: if you experience obsessive worries about one or multiple perceived flaws in your physical appearance, or if you develop compulsive behaviours and routines, such as excessive use of mirrors or picking your skin, to deal with the worries you have about the way you look.
If you find yourself using heavy make-up, changing your posture, constantly seeking reassurance or exercising excessively then it might be wise to seek guidance from your GP.
Although symptoms differ from person to person, if left untreated these thoughts can manifest and develop into other problems such as:
- Feelings of shame, guilt or loneliness
- Isolating yourself to avoid situations that cause you anxiety or discomfort
- Depression or anxiety
- Misuse of alcohol or other drugs
- Feeling you need unnecessary medical procedures, such as cosmetic surgery
- Eating disorders
- Self-harm
- Suicidal thoughts.