It is not all beauty and glam in the aesthetic industry.
As an aesthetic practitioner, it is my responsibility to assess all the patients that walk through the door and know when aesthetic treatment is not the answer.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder is a mental health disorder where a person has a distorted view of how they look and they have obsessive thoughts over their perceived flaws, which takes over their life.
It affects 1 in 50 of us, both male and female. It’s a very serious and debilitating illness, where the sufferer is always trying to mask their “flaws”. They feel like others will be repulsed by their appearance and not want them around, they avoid social situations and are either constantly looking at their own reflections or completely avoiding it. They suffer from low self esteem, anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts. They often seek cosmetic advice on how to fix their perceived flaws.
When those with BDD undergo cosmetic treatment, it doesn’t help them feel better and they are often left disappointed, upset and feeling worse off then when they started. I hope that if I come across someone who suffers from this illness, then I will be able to guide them towards the right direction where they can receive the help they need, but I know the signs of BDD aren’t that obvious.
Many of us have struggled in some way or another with our mental health during lockdown, and some of us have struggled more than others. It is important to know that you’re not alone during this difficult time and if needed, there is help out there.
Please don’t suffer in silence, you’re always worthy of being cared for.
#mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #bodydysmorphia #bodydysmorphicdisorder #bodydismorphia
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