BDD

Hi @Scarlet

I just wanted to drop you a quick message to welcome you to the Forums.

It's very couragous of you to share your story. I'm sorry to hear that the pscyhologist dissapointed you. I understand it's really hard to get to a place where you feel comfortable with someone, so it is really disheartening.

On the flip side, I think it could be a positive that the psychologist is taking action and being honest in saying that she is not best placed to assist and that there are others who could be more useful. Did she refer you directly to someone else?

Again, welcome to the Forums. This is a wonderfully supportive community, who look out for each other regardless of diagnosis. It's great to have you here.

Nik

Hello Scarlet,

I have always had a "poor body image" issue since I was a kid. My brother called me "two ton" when I was 12 which affected me for years. I was not over weight when he called me this, but he also said that no boys would like me if I was fat. By 15 I took diet pills to control my appetite. I was obsessed with being skinny most of my life. I went so far as to have Lippo done on my legs because I had a small bump that wouldn’t go away no matter how much I exercised. I used to exercise 2 x a day every day. I am not comfortable wearing shorts either and haven’t in 20 years and not because I am old, but because I can see some veins on my legs and I feel vulnerable. Same with a dress. Feeling vulnerable issues comes from being a victim of sexual assaults. I never got counselling for this. My GP told me he believes I have a personality disorder. I believe I probably do, but my "other" side is very strong and has helped me overcome many obstacles so I don’t necessarily see this as a problem or a bad thing. Having a bad self-image does make life miserable sometimes and I do relate to this as I am now overweight and struggling to get myself back to where I used to be. I don’t beat myself up any more; I just take one day at a time and if I fall off the wagon, tomorrow is another day to start fresh. I hope sharing this has helped. I have had to overcome a lot of issues. Some are still there and probably always will be. Some damage can't be fixed. I do look to the future with hope and I set myself some big goals. I try and stay away from negative people. I still have a lot of anger inside of me that maybe one day I will get counseling for it. I believe that sharing with others is just as good as professional help if your willing to talk about it. I feel that is all they do is get the person to talk about things so they can come to their own realisations. I hope this helped.

Hi Scarlett,

Sounds like you have been going through a really tough time so good on you for reaching out for support. I understand how disappointing it is to hear your psychologist say she can not provide you with the help you need but I think it is important she is honest with you. Seeing a psychologist who understands this condition will be far more beneficial for you in the long run so hang in there! There is an organization called Arcvic who deals with anxiety disorders which BDD comes under. If you call their helpline on 1300269438 they may be able to give you some information and referrals to a psychologist who deals with this issue. Their hours are Monday to Friday from 10 to 4pm. You may also like to check out their www.arcvic.org.

Best of luck with everything Scarlett. Take care.

Michelle

Hi Scarlett

I probably have BDD and tend to physically pick at myself beyond just nail-biting. I had a great sense of invisibility for decades. Also over inflated my physical size with trying to squeeze myself into clothes too small etc.

I am also tired of handing money to people when I dont think they ave earned it, but you are better working with someone who you can click better with.

Good luck

A