[throwaway4bid]

I have BID. I've been in therapy for more than a decade. Therapy has not done anything whatsoever for my dysphoria.

I'm convinced that my overall quality of life would improve if I got the disability I desire. The mental anguish is simply more intense than the consequences of physical limitation. I personally know others who have "gone through with it" and they really are happier now.

[shanusmagnus]

What kind of therapy do they attempt? Anything that attempts to integrate the physical body w/ the brain's schematic representation? I'm struck by similarities between BID and phantom limb, and wonder if tx incorporates any of the same strategies.

Also, FWIW, I'm sorry for your condition. It sounds hellish.

[throwaway4bid]

thank you.

my case is kind of special, since I also have a progressive genetic disorder that's led to me being disabled. it affects me in some of the ways that I "want", but not as completely as I'd like, and causes other issues I never wanted at all.

I attempted to integrate like you suggest, shifting my BID towards the direction of my newfound disability. mostly using cognitive reframing, acceptance/commitment therapy, and working at the peripheral issues like imposter syndrome, shame, grief.

I feel much less shame now, and I'm able to use BID as a coping mechanism for my physical condition, but the darned dysphoria is still present.