Emily Bell

Nightrider London for BDDF

Fundraising for BDD Foundation
£1,240
raised of £1,000 target
Donations cannot currently be made to this page
Event: Nightrider London 2022, from 11 June 2022 to 12 June 2022
BDD Foundation

Verified by JustGiving

RCN 1153753
We raise awareness and understanding of BDD to relieve the suffering of those affected

Story

The term Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) describes a disabling preoccupation with perceived defects or flaws in appearance. It can affect all genders, and makes sufferers excessively self-conscious.

Although I was diagnosed with BDD's close relative - obsessive compulsive disorder - in 2006, I did not hear about BDD until several years later. I had no idea that my 24/7 preoccupation with one particular body part was anything to do with an anxiety disorder, even though I was worried about it *all the time*. I genuinely thought that this body part looked offensive, and I started looking at cosmetic surgery websites. It was my father who pointed out that this seemed to be a new obsession for me, which led me to do a bit of research...and ultimately to being diagnosed with BDD. Thanks to the right support and treatment, I now have a 'normal' level of dissatisfaction with my appearance, and certainly never struggle to get out of bed because I don't want to be seen.

I am lucky that in my circle of family and friends, discussing mental health openly is the norm. However, BDD is particularly difficult to talk about - the sufferer avoids talking about their dislike of their appearance because they don't want the focus to be on the body part/s that they dislike, and the supporting relative or friend may be completely new to BDD and easily dismiss the person's worries ('oh you look fine, I've never noticed that'), or confuse BDD with vanity.

Many people with BDD never have their condition diagnosed and never get appropriate support and treatment, instead they hide away from the world believing that they are hideous and should not be seen. Individuals with BDD are 45 times more likely to die by suicide than the general population.

BDDF aims to advance education and understanding of BDD, by supporting research into BDD and its treatments. Whilst it is UK-based, BDDF's reach is international, since it is the only charity for BDD in the world. The charity offers various support groups for people affected by BDD and their families. Please support generously so that this vital work can continue.






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About the charity

BDD Foundation

Verified by JustGiving

RCN 1153753
Our charity is dedicated to the relief of suffering from BDD. It aims to advance education and understanding of BDD. It supports research into BDD and its treatments. Whilst we are based in the UK, our reach is international and we are proud to be the only charity for BDD in the world.

Donation summary

Total raised
£1,239.50
Online donations
£1,239.50
Offline donations
£0.00

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