Dysmorphopsia

Dysmorphopsia: Distortions in the perception of one's own appearance

Body dysmorphia, also known as body dysmorphic disorder (or body dysmorphic disorder), is a mental illness characterized by a distorted perception of one's appearance. People suffering from dysmorphopsia experience intense dissatisfaction with their appearance, perceiving themselves as physically unattractive or having serious defects.

The term "dysmorphopsia" comes from the Greek words "dis," which means "imperfect" or "distorted," and "morphe," which translates to "form," as well as "opsis," which means "sight." This reflects the essence of the disorder associated with a distorted perception of the shape of one's own body.

People suffering from dysmorphopsia often focus on the smallest details of their appearance that seem to them to be defects or imperfections. They may observe themselves closely in the mirror, spending hours and sometimes entire days analyzing their appearance and seeking confirmation of their negative beliefs. This can lead to serious mental distress, including depression and social isolation.

The causes of dysmorphopsia can be varied. One of the main factors is psychological, including low self-esteem, anxiety, perfectionism and traumatic experiences. In addition, genetic and biological factors, as well as upbringing and environment, may play a role in the development of this disorder.

Treatment for dysmorphopsia usually includes psychotherapy and medication support. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help patients change distorted perceptions and negative beliefs about their appearance. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed in cases of comorbid depression or anxiety.

It is important to note that body dysmorphia is a real and significant mental health disorder that requires support and understanding. Support from loved ones and professional help can play an important role in helping those suffering from this disorder to understand and accept their appearance.

In conclusion, dysmorphopsia is a disorder of self-image characterized by a distorted perception of body shape. People suffering from this disorder experience intense dissatisfaction with their appearance and focus on the smallest details that seem to them to be defects. Treatment for body dysmorphia may include psychotherapy and medication support, and support from others plays an important role in helping patients understand and accept their appearance.

Dysmorphopsia is a fairly common disease among humanity - a subjective syndrome of a person’s rejection of his appearance and the objects around him, or a distorted perception and interpretation of the beauty of his body or other objects. Often a person is faced with the problem of dysmorphophobia - as a rule, women suffer from more severe and protracted forms than men, although the disease is not limited to gender. This definition includes:

1. Dysmorphophobia due to physical abnormalities and illnesses. This form of the disease is milder and most often affects both sexes. More often it becomes hereditary and can cause anorexia or bulimia. The reason for this is neuroendocrine changes in the body. In severe cases of the disease and over 35 years of age, infertility is noted. 2. Classic shape. This form affects young people between 20 and 30 years old. It is this form of the disease that occurs very often and is clearly chronic. Typically, girls turn to specialists for help because they are too thin or overweight. It is this symptom that most often determines the development of the disease. The main cause of this form is considered to be a congenital hormonal defect. 3. Age dysmorphia. The form in which it is most common among older people. The disease develops due to age-related changes, after treatment or surgery. Thus, an operation to correct the shape of the nose or ears can serve as an impetus for the further development of body dysmorphic disorder. Also, attacks can be caused by concern for appearance or fashion if a person becomes dependent on someone else's opinion about his appearance. This form is distinguished by the manifestation of mood disorders