Researchers at UCLA have discovered that the brains of people with Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) process visual input differently, especially when examining their own face. They also found the same systems of the brain are overactive in both BDD and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder which suggests that the two conditions are linked.

"People with BDD are ashamed, anxious and depressed," said Dr. Jamie Feusner, an assistant professor of psychiatry and lead author of the study. "They obsess over tiny flaws on their face or body that other people would never even notice. Some refuse to leave the house, others feel the need to cover parts of their face or body, and some undergo multiple plastic surgeries. About half are hospitalized at some point in their lifetimes, and about one-fourth attempt suicide."

Little is known about the underlying  rain abnormalities that contribute to BDD so this research represents an important step towards new methods of treatment.

Read more > www.mentalhealth.org.uk/information/news/?entryid17=76839

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