In a world obsessed with appearances, it is not surprising that body
dysmorphic disorder, or BDD, has manifested itself as a troubling and
relatively common problem for many individuals. In The Broken Mirror,
the first and most definitive book on BDD, Dr. Katharine Phillips draws
on years of clinical practice, scientific research, and professional
evaluations of over 700 patients to bring readers her expertise and
experience with this often debilitating illness.
BDD causes sufferers to be obsessed by perceived flaws in their
appearance and may afflict as much as two percent of the population, or
nearly five million people. Many sufferers are able to function well in
society, but remain secretly obsessed by their "hideous acne" or
"horrible nose," sneaking constant peeks at a pocket mirror, or spending
hours at a time redoing makeup. Others find their lives disintegrate
because of their appearance obsessions. It is not an uncommon disorder,
simply a hidden one, since sufferers are often embarrassed to tell even
their closest friends about their concerns. The author presents the
stories and interviews of over 200 individuals to show the many
different behaviors and symptoms of BDD, and includes a quick
self-assessment questionnaire. Four new chapters provide updated
information on treatment of BDD, frequently obtained treatments to be
avoided, and more detailed advice for family members and friends on how
to cope with the disorder.
Left untreated, the torment of BDD can lead to psychiatric
hospitalization and sometimes suicide. With treatment, many sufferers
are able to lead normal lives. The Broken Mirror is literally a
lifesaving handbook for sufferers, their families, and their doctors.
