Main description:

As many as 5-10 million Americans may suffer from body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) yet it remains under-recognized by both mental health professionals and the general public. Tormented by obsessive thoughts associated with physical appearance, and related compulsive behaviors, people with BDD believe their bodies are flawed or even deformed-imperfections typically not noticeable to others. High suicide attempt rates, the pursuit of cosmetic remedies and other factors complicate the clinical picture.

Although Scott Granet began showing symptoms of BDD at 19, more than two decades passed before he discovered that his obsessive fear of losing his hair was a sign of a serious psychiatric condition. Written from the perspective of therapist who has lived with and triumphed over BDD, Granet's personal and clinical narrative guides the reader through the process of assessing and treating BDD.

Contents:

Disclaimer viii
Acknowledgments
Preface
Introduction
1. My Story
2. Body Dysmorphic Disorder Defined
3. Prevalence and Potential Causes of BDD
4. Do You Have BDD?
5. Treatment of BDD, Part I: Medications and Cognitive Therapy
6. Treatment, Part II: Behavior Therapy
7. The Case Against Plastic Surgery
8. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy: A Useful Approach with BDD?
9. Help for Families
10. What I've Learned and Staying Well
11. Case Conceptualizations
12. A Letter for Those Living with BDD
Resources
Appendix
Chapter Notes
Bibliography
Index