Broken Mirror Understanding and Treating Body Dysmorphic Disorder

In a world obsessed with appearance, it isn't surprising that body dysmorphic disorder, or BDD, has manifested itself as a troubling and relatively common problem for many individuals. In the original edition of The Broken Mirror, the first book ever written on the topic of BDD, Dr. Katharine Phillips brought readers an authoritative and comprehensive guide to 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. Some sufferers are able to function well in society, but remain secretly obsessed by their "hideous acne" or "horrible nose." Others may find themselves living as shut-ins because of their obsessions. All too often, sufferers are too embarrassed to tell even their closest friends or family about their concerns. Here Dr. Phillips presents stories and interviews to show the many different behaviors and symptoms of BDD, and includes a quick self-assessment questionnaire to aid in diagnosis. Like the original, this Revised and Expanded Edition draws on Dr. Phillips' years of clinical practice and scientific research, including professional evaluations of approximately 900 individuals with BDD. This edition also includes four indispensable, updated chapters that provide the latest information on treatment of BDD-including treatments that should be avoided-and give 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 professionals.Phillips, Katharine A. is the author of 'Broken Mirror Understanding and Treating Body Dysmorphic Disorder', published 2005 under ISBN 9780195167191 and ISBN 0195167198.