Suicidality in body dysmorphic disorder

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a psychiatric condition characterized by a persistent fixation on perceived flaws or defects that are minimal or not observed by others. BDD is often underdiagnosed, partly due to shame and limited screening, which can result in delayed or absence of treatment. This paper summarizes epidemiological and clinical research on suicidality in BDD, highlighting the consistently heightened rates of suicidal ideation, attempts and completed suicide in different groups and settings with BDD. Individuals with BDD experience substantially higher suicide risk than both the general population and individuals with other psychiatric conditions, including obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders and major depressive disorder. Factors contributing to this heightened suicide risk are shame, hopelessness, poor insight, social isolation and persistent distress regarding their perceived flaw. These findings highlight the importance of improving awareness of BDD among the general public and among mental health professionals with the hope that it will increase the likelihood of individuals with BDD seeking treatment.