Body dysmorphic disorder, or BDD, is a mental disorder characterized by excessive dissatisfaction with one's body (or more specifically, a particular body part) which causes significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other areas of functioning.

An individual suffering from BDD will likely spend hours every day thinking about the perceived defect, unable to focus on other ordinary tasks. The mirror becomes one's worst enemy. Many will constantly look at their reflection, or else go to great lengths to avoid catching their reflection (by throwing away or covering up mirrors). Other symptoms include:

• Constantly asking trusted loved ones for reassurance about their looks, but not believing the answer
• Grooming to excess - for example, shaving the same patch of skin over and over
• Avoiding any situation they feel will call attention to their defect - in extreme cases, this can mean never leaving home
• Squeezing or picking at skin blemishes for hours on end
• Taking great pains to hide or camouflage the 'defect'
• Depression and anxiety, including suicidal thoughts

According to the Better Health Channel website, "BDD usually starts in the teenage years, when concern over physical appearance is common." Still, the cause of BDD is unknown. Possible theories include: a chemical imbalance in the brain (serotonin deficiency), genetic predisposition (passed on by parents with OCD or other anxiety disorders), traumatic childhood or adolescent experiences combined with extremely low self-esteem, and the age-old, societal preoccupation with impossible beauty standards.

Whatever the cause, BDD has no real solution. Unlike individuals suffering from apotemnophilia - for whom surgery is an effective (though morally questionable) treatment - BDD patients will never be satisfied with surgical results. Though many undergo multiple cosmetic procedures, they will dwell on their imperfections and perceived ugliness no matter the result. For these individuals, treatment options include cognitive behavior therapy, psychotherapy, and a steady regimen of antidepressant medications.

For the majority of these individuals, everyday life is a struggle. Waking up and absolutely hating the person they see in the mirror, wishing they could disappear or become someone else altogether. All I know is that the next time I whine about having a bad hair day or disliking the way I look, I'm going to stop myself and move on to more important things - because I have the luxury of being able to.