Intersecting Realities: Body Dysmorphic Disorder and Substance Abuse in Women – A Holistic Treatment Approach

Year 2024, Volume: 3 Issue: 1, 1 - 16, 30.06.2024

Metin Çınaroğlu

https://doi.org/10.61158/saukad.1437131

Abstract

The intersection of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) and substance abuse in women presents a clinical tableau rich with complexity and challenges. This review explores the intricate relationship between BDD—a disorder characterized by an obsessive preoccupation with perceived physical flaws—and substance abuse, where women may turn to drugs or alcohol as a maladaptive coping mechanism to alleviate the distress associated with BDD. A literature-focused methodology was employed in the study. In this context, databases such as PubMed, DergiPark, WoS, and ScienceDirect were utilized to explore the relevant literature. The analysis delves into the unique manifestation of BDD in women, influenced by societal, cultural, and psychological factors that often impose stringent beauty standards and exacerbate body image concerns. Patterns of substance abuse among women are discussed, highlighting the rapid progression from usage to dependency, known as telescoping, and the impact of societal stigma that compounds the struggles of women with addiction. Risk factors for both conditions are examined, with a focus on shared contributors such as trauma, mental health comorbidities, and societal pressures. Current treatment approaches are reviewed, advocating for an integrated model that combines psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and holistic or alternative interventions. The review emphasizes the importance of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for BDD and Medication-Assisted Treatment for substance abuse, as well as the inclusion of mindfulness, meditation, and gender- The conclusion reinforces the imperative of a cohesive treatment strategy, underscoring the need for gender-specific, trauma-informed care that understands and addresses the complex interplay between BDD and substance abuse in women. This comprehensive approach promises more effective support and a hopeful pathway to recovery for women entangled in the web of these co-occurring disorders.

Keywords

Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Substance Abuse in Women, BDD and Addiction Correlation

Kesişen Gerçeklikler: Kadınlarda Beden Disformik Bozukluğu ve Madde Bağımlılığı – Bütüncül Bir Tedavi Yaklaşımı

Abstract

Kadınlarda görülen Beden Disformik Bozukluğu (BDD) ve madde bağımlılığının kesişimi, zengin bir karmaşıklık ve zorluklarla dolu klinik bir tablo sunmaktadır. Bu derleme, özellikle kadınları etkileyen ve genellikle katı güzellik standartları tarafından şiddetlendirilen beden imajı kaygılarını artıran toplumsal, kültürel ve psikolojik faktörlerin etkisi altında kadınlarda benzersiz bir şekilde ortaya çıkan BDD ile madde bağımlılığı arasındaki karmaşık ilişkiyi keşfetmektedir. Kadınlarda madde bağımlılığının modelleri tartışılmakta, kullanımdan bağımlılığa hızlı geçiş olan "teleskopik ilerleme" ve kadınların bağımlılık mücadelelerini derinleştiren toplumsal damgalamanın etkisi vurgulanmaktadır. Her iki durum için risk faktörleri incelenmekte olup, travma, ruh sağlığı eş hastalıkları ve toplumsal baskılar gibi ortak katkıda bulunanlar üzerinde durulmaktadır. Mevcut tedavi yaklaşımları gözden geçirilmiş, BDD için Bilişsel Davranışçı Terapi ve madde bağımlılığı için İlaç Destekli Tedavi gibi tedavilerin yanı sıra geniş bir iyileşme ihtiyaçlarını ele almak için farkındalık, meditasyon ve cinsiyete özgü destek gruplarının dahil edilmesinin önemi vurgulanmaktadır. Sonuç, kadınlarda BDD ve madde bağımlılığı arasındaki karmaşık etkileşimi anlayan ve ele alan cinsiyete özgü, travmaya duyarlı bakımın gerekliliğini pekiştirmekte ve bu birbirleriyle ilişkili bozuklukların ağında sıkışmış kadınlara daha etkili destek ve umut vadeden bir iyileşme yolunu vaat etmektedir.

Keywords

Beden Disformik Bozukluğu, Kadınlarda Madde Bağımlılığı, BDD ve Bağımlılık Arasındaki İlişki

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