Body Dysmorphic Disorder, or BDD, is a mental health disorder that involves sufferers having a disabling preoccupation with either a slight or perceived defect or flaws in appearance. This disorder affects both men and women and can be extremely disabling.  Sufferers are excessively self-conscious, tend to check their appearance repeatedly, and/or try to camouflage or alter their appearance because they see themselves as "hideous," "defective," or even "disfigured."  Due to the extremely painful preoccupation with one's appearance sufferers often subject themselves to needless cosmetic surgeries and treatments. Family, friends, and partners find themselves perplexed because they can not see anything "wrong" with the appearance of their loved one.  Regardless, BDD is a devastating, highly distressing disorder that interferes significantly with the sufferer's ability to function normally in society.

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Whether you have BDD, or you have a family member, friend, or partner struggling with BDD,  It is hoped that you will find this website informative, compassionate, and helpful.  More than anything, I hope you find your hope.

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Heather Morgan-Sowada, PhD, LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Assistant Professor of Marriage and Family Therapy, Mount Mercy University 

Founder, Body Dysmorphic Disorder Clinic of Iowa and Resolute Therapy