Famous filmmaker Karan Johar recently spoke candidly about his battle with body dysmorphia, shedding light on the persistent challenges despite seeking professional help. In an interview with Faye D’ Souza, Johar revealed his ongoing struggle, stating, “I have body dysmorphia, I am very awkward getting into a pool. I don’t know how to do it without feeling pathetic.”
Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition characterized by extreme dissatisfaction with one’s physical appearance, as noted by John Hopkins Medicine. Johar emphasized how his perceived flaws persist despite efforts to overcome them: “Even if I lose the weight, and I try very hard, I’m always battling with it, but I’m always feeling I’m fat.”
The filmmaker highlighted the broader impact of BDD on his life, including challenges in intimate situations and even resorting to therapy and medication following a panic attack. His openness reflects a growing awareness of body image issues, affecting not only celebrities like Priyanka Chopra and Sonam Kapoor but also individuals globally.
Body dysmorphic disorder affects approximately two percent of the world’s population, according to a 2016 study in the Journal Cureus. It can manifest early in life and persist without intervention, potentially leading to severe mental health consequences and increased risk of suicide.
Beyond Bollywood, Hollywood celebrities like Megan Fox and Billie Eilish have also shared their struggles with BDD. Megan Fox described it as a constant battle, while Billie Eilish recalled her peak struggles during dance school, emphasizing the ongoing journey to self-acceptance.
Treatment for BDD involves therapeutic approaches that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. Studies published in Psychology and Psychiatry underline the importance of addressing BDD early to mitigate its impact, prevent suicidal tendencies, and reduce the risk of developing additional mental health disorders.
While BDD can lead to significant challenges, including self-harm and substance use disorders, timely intervention and therapy offer hope for managing symptoms and achieving remission. Johar’s story underscores the importance of destigmatizing discussions around body image and mental health, encouraging others to seek support and understanding.