A lot of people may feel dissatisfied with some aspects of their appearance from time to time. For example, they might wish to have a smaller nose, slimmer face, or better complexion. Some people, however, may take it a little too far and develop an extremely negative perception of their body. This perception is often distorted and may be a sign of body image issues.
Please answer the questions below as honestly as you can.
Do you tend to spend a lot of time ruminating about a perceived flaw in your appearance?
True
False
Do you fall behind your tasks because you are busy with grooming yourself?
True
False
Are you considering plastic surgery?
True
False
Do you avoid some social situations because you are embarrassed about the way you look?
True
False
Do you spend unreasonable amounts in an attempt to “fix” your appearance?
True
False
Do you spend lots of time googling ways to hide some aspects of your appearance?
True
False
Do you avoid romantic relationships out of the fear that your potential partner will notice your “flaws”?
True
False
Do you constantly try to cover up your perceived flaws with makeup, enlargement pads, waist trimmers, etc.?
True
False
Do you tend to avoid bright light because others may be able to see all details of your appearance?
True
False
Do you doubt other people’s sincerity when they tell you you look fine?
True
False
Do you overtrain regularly?
True
False
Do you hold your body in certain positions to hide some of your perceived flaws?
True
False
Do you refuse to take pictures?
True
False
Do you hold your face at a particular angle when having a conversation?
True
False
Do you overuse protein supplements and/or steroids?
True
False
Do you constantly compare yourself to others, appearance-wise?
True
False
Do you believe that a part of your body or your face is defective in some way?
True
False
Do you habitually gaze into mirrors for a long time?
True
False
Do you avoid mirrors?
True
False
Do you constantly think about your appearance?
True
False
If you answered “TRUE” to any of the above questions, you might have a body image problem.
If you also changed the way you eat, you might be dealing with an eating disorder.
Nobody can diagnose body dysmorphia on the internet. If you have any doubts, we strongly recommend that you consult a mental health professional. Please keep in mind that eating disorders and body dysmorphia may need different treatment approaches.
Before you go, please remember that body dysmorphia isn’t just a vanity issue. It is a serious psychological problem that can cause severe distress and anxiety. It can affect both men and women equally, and addressing your concerns should become your priority.