Dysmorphophobic delirium

Title: Dysmorphophobic Delusion: Illusions about a Physical Disability

Introduction:
Body dysmorphic delirium, also known as physical handicap delirium, is a mental disorder characterized by a distorted perception of one's appearance. People suffering from this disorder experience excessive anxiety and mistrust of their appearance, despite the lack of objective grounds for such feelings. Body dysmorphic disorder can have a serious impact on patients' quality of life, and understanding the disorder is important for its diagnosis and treatment.

Definition and features of dysmorphophobic delirium:
Dysmorphophobic delirium, as its name suggests, is a form of delusion associated with body dysmorphic disorder. Body dysmorphic disorder, or body image disorder, is the belief that there is a serious physical defect that actually does not exist. People suffering from body dysmorphic delirium distort their appearance and see themselves as extremely unattractive or deformed, even if their appearance corresponds to the norm.

One of the features of Dysmorphophobic delirium is the patient’s obsession and unshakability of beliefs. Despite others' beliefs that their appearance is attractive or normal, people with this disorder cannot accept this and continue to suffer from anxiety and dissatisfaction with their appearance.

Causes and diagnosis:
The exact reasons for the development of BDD delirium have not been fully studied. However, it is believed that there are several factors that may contribute to its occurrence. These include genetic predispositions, chemical imbalances in the brain, traumatic events or negative experiences in the past, and sociocultural influences including society's ideals of beauty.

Diagnosing BDD can be difficult, as patients usually hide their suffering and are embarrassed to seek help. Physicians and psychologists rely on clinical observations, interviews with the patient, and the use of standardized assessment techniques to determine the presence of delusions and rule out other possible causes of symptoms.

Treatment and support:
Treatment for BDD usually involves a combination of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy. Psychotherapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy can help patients address distorted beliefs about their appearance and develop healthier attitudes about themselves. CBT may include techniques for reappraising thoughts, training in self-acceptance, and improving self-esteem.

Pharmacotherapy may be recommended in cases where patients experience concomitant depressive or anxiety symptoms. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can help reduce anxiety and improve a patient's mood.

In addition, support from the social environment and psychosocial rehabilitation are important in the treatment of BDD. Family support, group therapy or support groups can help patients cope with emotional discomfort and gain understanding and support from others suffering from similar problems.

Conclusion:
Body dysmorphic delusion, or delusion of physical handicap, is a serious mental disorder that leads to a distorted perception of one's own appearance. People suffering from this disorder experience anxiety and discomfort despite having no actual physical defects. Diagnosis and treatment of BDD require an integrated approach, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy and psychosocial support. Understanding this disorder and seeking timely help can help patients improve their quality of life and achieve mental well-being.