Zoom Dysmorphia: A Growing Concern for Women

Updated: Oct. 18, 2021

The rise of virtual meetings has become a part of daily life for millions. With around 300 million users logging into Zoom every day, and millions more utilizing platforms like Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, Skype, and FaceTime, the digital landscape has transformed how we connect.

While many have found virtual meetings to be beneficial for their mental health, others are facing unexpected challenges. The phenomenon known as “Zoom dysmorphia” is affecting many, particularly women, who are increasingly troubled by their reflections during video calls.

As 27-year-old Mia Johnson from Seattle shared with The Guardian, “The more I focus on my appearance during video calls, the more I feel like disappearing. It’s isolating.” Mia’s sentiment reflects a growing trend where constant self-viewing leads to negative self-esteem and mental strain.

A recent study from the International Journal of Women’s Dermatology highlights a marked increase in body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) during the pandemic, with social media and videoconferencing contributing to this rise. The study indicates that young women, in particular, are experiencing heightened self-criticism and body dissatisfaction, a condition some are labeling as “Zoom dysmorphia.”

Psychology Today describes this condition as a type of BDD that manifests through an intense focus on one’s facial features, leading to anxiety and social withdrawal. Those affected may find themselves overly critical of their appearance, often perceiving flaws that aren’t there. “Seeing my face on screen feels like looking in a funhouse mirror,” Mia noted, emphasizing the distress such distorted self-perceptions can cause.

The clinical staff at The Renfrew Center explains that the increased time in front of screens can exacerbate feelings of body dissatisfaction and pressure to alter one’s appearance. This can lead to unhealthy behaviors, including disordered eating and an inclination towards cosmetic procedures.

Dysmorphic disorders, including BDD, are not new. Individuals grappling with these issues often experience intense shame regarding their perceived flaws. My own journey with BDD involved extreme dieting and obsessive exercise, yet I never found satisfaction. Thankfully, I learned to let go of the scale and started healing away from mirrors. However, for many dealing with Zoom dysmorphia, the challenge persists, especially when video calls are integral to their work.

Take, for example, 28-year-old David Lee from Toronto, who found himself fixating on imperfections in his facial features during online meetings. Ultimately, he underwent surgery to correct what he perceived as flaws, but the dysmorphia soon returned, prompting him to seek therapy specialized in body image issues.

For those struggling with similar feelings, there are ways to manage symptoms. Samantha DeCaro, a clinical director at The Renfrew Center, suggests hiding your image on Zoom or seeking cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). “CBT can help individuals understand and address their distressing thoughts,” she explains, and exposure therapy can gradually lessen the power of perceived flaws.

If you’re interested in learning more about managing self-image or seeking support, check out our other related posts, such as this one, or explore resources like this informative article. Additionally, for those looking to further their fertility journey, Make a Mom provides excellent tools and insights.

In summary, the rise of Zoom dysmorphia highlights significant challenges many face regarding self-image in the digital age. As we navigate this landscape, prioritizing mental health and seeking support can help mitigate the impact of constant self-scrutiny.

Search Queries:

Keyphrase: Zoom dysmorphia

Tags: [“home insemination kit”, “home insemination syringe”, “self insemination”]