Director and producer
Karan Johar
recently opened up in an interview about suffering from body dysmorphia, a
mental health
condition that affect’s the perception of one’s own appearance. Karan, for example, spoke about how he would always choose baggy clothes, or be very conscious about getting into the pool. The condition, which has gained recognition after celebs have started talking about it, can affect 2-3% of the population and requires therapy to overcome it.
What are the symptoms of body dysmorphia?
-Frequently checking one’s appearance and weight
-Seeking reassurance about one’s appearance from others
-Difficulty in maintaining healthy relationships or avoiding social interactions
– Disruption of physical, emotional and mental wellbeing
Many models approach us to deal with insecurities about their face and body, or after a failed nose or lip job. Body dysmorphia cannot be cured by cosmetic surgeries. I recently had a patient who was contemplating a surgery to change the appearance of her belly button. The influence of
social media
can worsen this condition. There are different groups of patients, the first who understand it is a mental health issue and approach their therapist, the second who are not aware of the condition and opt for multiple cosmetic surgeries. There is also a third group who have genuine body issues like a burn mark or a cleft palate. Generally, patients approach us when their family members realise they are going overboard with their obsession. There is also an anxiety and depression component connected to it, which can reach psychotic levels. This is usually observed more in younger age groups rather than middle aged and older people.
Dr Avinash Desousa, consultant psychiatrist
Our constant exposure to heavily edited images on social media can lead to a feeling of inadequacy. Social media operates on a system of likes, comments, and followers, and negative comments and cyberbullying can be detrimental to one’s mental health and
body image
. The promotion of certain body types and beauty standards can reinforce the idea that only certain looks are acceptable or desirable. If the severity of the condition is mild then these strategies would be helpful, but if the severity is moderate or high, exposure and response prevention (ERP), is recommended. ERP is a behavioral therapy that gradually exposes people to situations designed to provoke a person’s obsessions in a safe environment.
Nirali Hundiya, counselling psychologist
Dos and Don’ts
– Limit the use of social media and have more realistic beauty standards
– Avoid negative self talk
-Engage in activities that promote building a healthy sense of self and confidence.
– Seek support from loved ones and positive online forums.
– Journal feelings in a safe space.
CELEBS WHO HAVE SPOKEN ABOUT THEIR BODY DYSMORPHIA
Body dysmorphia, overall tremendous anxiety. I suppose it’s because of these tremendous insecurities that I never found a way to become egotistical… I’ve been like that my whole life. I never want to take my shirt off
Robert Pattinson
I’ve never felt comfortable in really tiny clothes. I was always worried about my appearance. That was the peak of my body dysmorphia. I couldn’t look in the mirror at all
Billie Eilish
I have body dysmorphia — I don’t ever see myself the way other people see me. There’s never a point in my life where I loved my body, never, ever.
Megan Fox
I’ve come to terms with body dysmorphia and evolved. The body-positive movement is doing the same thing. We’re growing together, and it’s growing pains
-Lizzo
