When we think of body image disorders, we usually think of anorexia or bulimia. But another, lesser-known disorder is becoming increasingly common—especially among boys and young men. It's called bigorexia, and it's a form of body dysmorphic disorder, where a person obsesses over the idea that they're not muscular enough, despite the fact that they may have a physique similar to that of a bodybuilder.
Experts explain that those who suffer from bigorexia have a distorted perception of their bodies. "People with bigorexia often believe that they are smaller or less physically developed than they actually are," says psychologist Amy Gooding. This fixation can lead to unhealthy behaviors, such as excessive exercise or drastic changes in diet to achieve a leaner, more muscular body.
Why is bigorexia becoming so common?
The causes of this disorder are numerous and are related to biological, psychological and socio-cultural factors. A family history of mental disorders, anxiety or body image issues can increase the risk of developing bigorexia. Also, people with low self-esteem, perfectionist tendencies or obsessive-compulsive tendencies are more exposed to this phenomenon.
Another important factor is trauma or bullying, especially in adolescence. Experts say that bodybuilders and weightlifters are at higher risk, especially if they do it to change their body image rather than to improve sports performance.
How do you tell if someone is dealing with bigorexia?
If you notice someone is obsessed with the gym, making extreme changes to their diet, and constantly worrying about their muscle mass, it could be a sign of bigorexia. It's important to understand that this is not just a desire to be in shape, but a psychological problem that can lead to serious physical and mental consequences.
So, if a relative or friend of yours exhibits such behaviors, professional help may be the best solution. Treatment usually involves cognitive-behavioral therapy, which helps the person restructure their thoughts about their body and develop a healthier relationship with exercise and food.
The bottom line? A healthy body is not only measured by muscles, but also by a calm mind and a balanced relationship with our body.
Sources: HuffPost
