Muscle dysmorphia, delving into body image
Very few people get through a day without looking in a mirror. Body checking for gym goers can become a regular habit to check on progress, weight gain and muscle definition. It can become problematic if it interferes with our concentration, limits our eating, creates anxiety about our body, or isolates us from others.
Bigorexia, also referred to as muscle dysmorphia, is a health condition that shares similar symptoms to anorexia. The condition appears to be more common with all the latest health trends on social media influencing young adults to fixate on building bigger muscles.
- Signs that someone might have traits linked to muscle dysmorphia:
- Long hours spent in the gym, pushing the body beyond its normal limits and repeatedly.
- A never-ending diet where the person wants weight loss and more muscle.
- Disliking their body and feeling ashamed when others may perceive weakness.
- Avoiding social activities.
- Constantly checking the mirror, associated with negative feelings or behaviours.
Recent healthcare research shows social media can have an impact on our body image, putting people at risk of developing unhealthy approaches to their bodies, food, eating and exercise routine. Eating disorders arise from a combination of psychological, genetic, and social factors.
When left untreated, bigorexia can lead to other complicated issues like steroid misuse, other eating disorders, and depression. Coping strategies may include participating in support groups, practicing meditation, deep-breath exercises, trying different outdoor activities instead of just the gym, keeping a journal to track your feelings and identify triggers, etc.
Resistance training does have many health benefits, when done with a healthy mindset and in moderation. The typical recommended weekly dose of resistance training or gym sessions can be 2-3 times. Incorporating other activities can also provide the balance, and give the best mental and physical health benefits: ie: walking, swimming, yoga, etc.
If you’re having thoughts of self-harm or any mental health conditions reach out to Lifeline Australia 13 11 14 or SMS 0477 13 11 14
BODY IMAGE INTERPLAYS FOUR BIG ELEMENTS
- Thoughts: and beliefs about our body shape and appearance, may be influenced by the people around us.
- Perception: body shape, size and weight (sometimes not accurate to our actual appearance but what we see).
- Feelings: of dissatisfaction about our body compared to our ideal body image.
- Behaviour: a reflection of our thoughts, perceptions, and feelings. Exercise, diet, mirror checking etc.