Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is considered to be an "obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorder" due to similarities with OCD. Both conditions feature unwanted thoughts or images that cause anxiety as well as subsequent compulsions, such as mirror checking or seeking reassurance, to cope with perceived appearance flaws.  Although no one is completely satisfied with their appearance, individuals with BDD often experience debilitating anxiety and depression which impacts their overall quality of life and functioning. 

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Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) combined with exposure and response prevention (ERP) is the treatment of choice for BDD. Beliefs about appearance are challenged and restructured while minimizing avoidance and other problematic compulsions to place less emphasis on achieving a perfect appearance and building healthier lifestyle habits. 

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