Snapchat Dysmorphia Syndrome

Do you consider yourself a photoholic person? Well, at some point everybody does. Remember, how back in the day there was not much one could do to edit photos? If technology has changed one thing it sure would be that. Apps like Instagram and Snapchat have allowed us to retouch and edit our pictures however we want. It may seem fun to do so, but it can cause a disorder known as Snapchat Dysmorphia.

What is Snapchat Dysmorphia?

Snapchat Dysmorphia is an increased obsession with the discerned flaws in a person's face or body. Due to the various beauty filters that our social media applications provide, people have grown highly concerned about the way they look. This leads to a severe body-image disorder where people compare their filtered snaps to their actual appearance.

The Key Signs

According to research, Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a mental condition affecting 1 in 50 people in the United States. If you find yourself ever trapped in such thoughts, know that it is a warning sign. It is alright to feel pretty and want to use filters because of that reason. However, your selfie-filtering habit should not reach the extent where it starts to take a toll on you. Remember, the further your filtered picture gets from how you actually appear, the worse it is going to make you feel.

What Causes Snapchat Dysmorphia?

Staring at your pictures for longer than you should is a threat to your own well-being. Studies reveal that spending excessive time viewing selfies could easily make you dissatisfied with your own facial features. Similarly, looking at pictures of other people on social media platforms can lead you to compare their appearance with yours.

Why is it More and More Concerning?

”A new phenomenon called ‘Snapchat Dysmorphia’ has popped up where patients are seeking out surgery to help them appear like the filtered versions of themselves", says Dr. Neelam Vashi. This is not only a highly pressing matter for health care providers but is especially harmful to teens. Additionally, surgeries can be a risk to life for people who are already suffering from BDD. It can also simply be classified under the obsessive-compulsive spectrum.

Moreover, if what the person wants is not immediately fulfilled may suffer from major depression and develop suicidal tendencies. The easy accessibility of filters has lowered self-esteem, confidence, and an increased need for aesthetic validation. Worst case scenario, it can also lead to zero sociability, decreased quality of life, and difficulty in managing daily responsibilities. Thus, Snapchat Dysmorphia has been a cause of worry, especially in the present day.

How to Snap Out of it?

In the age of social media, it is normal to fall prey to self-criticism. If you observe signs of Snapchat Dysmorphia while using social media it is time to take action before it is too late. There is no harm in taking a break from the digital world. We promise you, that the world won't stop nor will you miss out on anything.

However, it will help as a cleansing process to refresh your perspective. To appreciate oneself, it is important to spend some me-time. Providing you with a perfect excuse to discard yourself from your phone for a while. Below are a few tips that can help you while you are at it.

1. Set a timer

It is only sane to utilize your time for your progress and not distortion. Set boundaries on the time you spend on social media. Cut it down to an hour a day to a couple of minutes just to check if you are missing something important. Once you do this, you will realize it is not as hard as you thought it might be. Moreover, also reduce taking and editing selfies.

2. Stop comparing yourself to others

It is only natural for human beings to look up to others. However, there is an important difference between when you are looking up to someone and when you start comparing yourself to them. Do not forget that you are not the only person to use filters on today's date. The pictures you see online are just as much edited as yours. Take a chill pill and do not overthink.

3. Filter your social circle

If you feel like you compete with your fellow mates, it is time to say goodbye. Avoid keeping in contact with people on social media whom you do not engage with. They will only worsen your condition and that will do you no good.

Final Word

Use Snapchat all you want! Just make sure you know the limits. Do not let it control you, instead take control over it and embrace your true self. It is also integral to understand that the quest for perfection never really ends. So, why not enjoy the process and appreciate life as it is?