Demystifying Dysmorphia

What is it like not to trust the reflection you see in the mirror?

- Chandra Pepino

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental disorder characterized by a chronic dissatisfaction with one’s own appearance—even after dra-matic weight loss. Kelly,* 18, and Christopher, 24*, share their stories with Cosmo.

BUFFERING THE BULLYING 

“Having BDD does not mean you are vain or self-obsessed. You may be more likely to develop BDD if you were teased, bullied, or abused when you were a child,” says the National Health Service UK.

KELLY: I was overweight, approaching obese, in high school, so of course

I was an easy target for bullying. I developed anorexia and lost 50 pounds. The girls who used to put me down now give me compliments and want to hang out. They don’t realize I got here in the worst possible way. I regained 10 pounds this year, which is actually a good thing.