Karan Johar opens up about body dysmorphia: Even weight loss doesn’t change your mind; What is this condition

Karan Johar candidly discusses body dysmorphia on Two Much, explaining how it affects self-image and mental health

Filmmaker Karan Johar recently appeared on Two Much — the talk show hosted by Twinkle Khanna and Kajol on Amazon Prime Video — where he opened up about his ongoing struggle with body dysmorphia, a condition that affects how a person perceives their own appearance.

In the episode, Karan appeared alongside actor Janhvi Kapoor. Amid playful banter, Twinkle jokingly called him “the most likeable hated person” and complimented his recent physical transformation, saying he’s gone from “pineapple pizza” to “mozzarella pizza.”

Karan, however, used that moment to talk about something deeper. “If you are not true in an interview, there’s no point in giving one,” he said, explaining how honesty has always been central to his public life. “I have grown up with body dysmorphia and I am very uncomfortable in my own skin,” he admitted. “Even after losing weight, it doesn’t change what’s going on in your head. It’s a whole journey.”

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The Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani director, who has earlier spoken about seeking therapy for anxiety, reiterated the importance of mental health support, acknowledging that self-improvement takes time and patience.

What Is Body Dysmorphia?

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a mental health issue where someone obsesses over supposed flaws in how they look — flaws that are small or not even noticeable to others.

Common signs include:

• Always comparing how you look to others
• Checking the mirror all the time or avoiding it
• Taking a long time to get ready or hide perceived flaws
• Feeling upset and having low self-worth because of one's looks
• Skipping social events due to feeling self-conscious

How to Handle Body Dysmorphia

Experts say to recover from body dysmorphia, you need to work on your mind and body. Here are some practical, proven steps:

Get Professional Support:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) helps you spot and question wrong ideas about your body. Sometimes, doctors suggest medicine (SSRIs) to handle worry or thoughts you can't shake.

Cut Down on Mirror Time and Comparing:

Looking in the mirror less and scrolling less on social media stops you from always checking yourself. Fill your online world with real and body-friendly stuff.

Change Negative Self-Talk:

Switch mean words to yourself with true kind thoughts. Writing down feelings and being aware of the present can help you think about yourself.

Prioritize Function Over Looks:

Value your body's abilities — its capacity to move, embrace, make things, and chuckle — instead of its appearance.

Create a Circle of Support:

Sharing body image concerns with close friends or a counsellor helps lessen feelings of embarrassment and loneliness.

Be Kind to Yourself:

Take care of your body as you would someone dear to you. Remember, getting better isn't always straightforward — and that's fine.

Also Read: Karan Johar reveals he deals with body dysmorphia, says it is ‘very awkward getting into a pool without feeling pathetic’

By talking about body dysmorphia, Karan Johar adds his name to a growing list of celebrities who are making mental health discussions more common. His openness highlights a basic yet crucial point — changing how you look won't fix what needs to heal inside.

This serves as a reminder that wellness isn't just about working out or eating right — it's also about learning to accept the person you see in the mirror, step by step.

FAQs on Body Dysmorphia

1. What is body dysmorphia?

Body dysmorphia, or Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), is a mental health condition where a person obsesses over perceived flaws in their appearance, which are often minor or unnoticeable to others.

2. What are the signs of body dysmorphia?

Common signs include constantly comparing your appearance to others, frequently checking or avoiding mirrors, taking excessive time to get ready, feeling upset and having low self-worth due to appearance, and avoiding social events because of self-consciousness.

3. How is body dysmorphia different from low self-esteem?

While both involve negative self-perception, body dysmorphia is a recognised anxiety disorder with specific symptoms that can severely impact daily functioning and well-being, requiring professional treatment.

4. What treatments are available for body dysmorphia?

Treatment options include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to address distorted thoughts and sometimes medication like SSRIs for managing anxiety and obsessive thoughts.

5. How can you support someone with body dysmorphia?

Encourage them to seek professional help, listen to their concerns without judgment, and promote positive self-talk and body functionality over appearance.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis