Seeing Beyond the Mirror: Understanding and Treating Body Dysmorphic Disorder in Psychiatric Practice

Body Dysmorphic Disorder is frequently underrecognized in clinical settings, yet it carries significant risks including severe distress, functional impairment, and elevated suicidality. This session provides a practical framework for identifying BDD, differentiating it from related conditions, and addressing common barriers to engagement such as poor insight and reassurance-seeking. Faculty will review evidence-based treatments, including SSRIs, CBT with exposure and response prevention, and strategies for managing compulsive behaviors and cosmetic treatment-seeking. Participants will gain tools to improve diagnostic accuracy, strengthen therapeutic alliance, and support recovery in patients struggling with distorted body image beliefs.