Bigorexia and Muscle Dysmorphia
As a psychotherapist specializing in body image disorders, I’ve had the privilege of working with bodybuilders of all backgrounds here in Chicago. One common thread among many of my clients is the struggle with muscle dysmorphia, often referred to as “bigorexia.”
While it’s great to be passionate about fitness and muscle building, it’s crucial to recognize when this passion turns into an unhealthy obsession. In this post, I’ll walk you through seven signs of bigorexia and discuss how we can approach treatment. I’ve taken the liberty of using non-clinical language wherever possible to keep things simple.
1. Obsessive Focus on Muscle Size
The first sign of bigorexia is an obsessive focus on muscle size. Bodybuilders with muscle dysmorphia spend an inordinate amount of time checking their muscle definition, often feeling that they are never “big” enough.
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This obsession can manifest in frequent mirror checks, constant comparisons with others, and excessive attention to minor changes in muscle size. It’s not just about wanting to improve—it’s about never feeling satisfied, no matter how much progress is made.
2. Extreme Workout Regimens
People with bigorexia tend to follow extreme workout regimens, often to the point of risking injury. They might spend several hours at the gym daily, lifting heavy weights and pushing their bodies to the limit. This dedication might seem admirable at first, but it often comes at the cost of other important aspects of life, like work, relationships, and overall well-being.
When working out becomes the center of your universe, it’s a red flag.
3. Distorted Body Image
A hallmark of muscle dysmorphia is a distorted body image. Even when they have well-developed muscles, those with bigorexia perceive themselves as small or inadequately muscular. This distorted view can lead to a relentless pursuit of muscle gain, often involving dangerous practices like excessive supplementation or steroid use.
The disconnect between reality and perception is profound and can be incredibly damaging.
4. Compulsive Eating and Supplement Use
Nutrition is crucial for muscle building, but bigorexia can turn healthy eating into a compulsion. Individuals may follow rigid diets, consume excessive amounts of protein, and rely heavily on supplements. The fear of not eating the “right” foods or not getting enough nutrients can dominate their thoughts, leading to anxiety and stress around meals.
This obsessive approach to nutrition often undermines the natural joy and social aspect of eating.
5. Avoidance of Social Situations
People struggling with bigorexia often avoid social situations, particularly those that involve eating or potential disruptions to their workout schedule. They might skip events where they can’t control their diet or feel self-conscious about their bodies.
This isolation can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and loneliness, creating a vicious cycle where the pursuit of muscle perfection leads to greater emotional distress.
6. Negative Impact on Mental Health
Bigorexia significantly impacts mental health. The constant self-criticism, fear of judgment, and relentless pursuit of an unattainable ideal can lead to depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It’s not uncommon for individuals to experience mood swings, irritability, and a pervasive sense of failure, despite their physical accomplishments.
This negative mental state can be just as debilitating as any physical injury.
7. Risky Behavior
Finally, bigorexia often leads to risky behavior. The use of anabolic steroids and other performance-enhancing drugs is prevalent among those with muscle dysmorphia. These substances pose serious health risks, including heart problems, liver damage, and psychological effects like aggression and mood disorders.
Moreover, the overtraining and constant physical strain can lead to severe injuries that might have long-term consequences.
Treating Bigorexia
Addressing bigorexia involves a multifaceted approach. As a therapist, my goal is to help clients develop a healthier relationship with their bodies and their fitness routines. Here are some strategies we use:
1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a cornerstone of treating muscle dysmorphia. It helps individuals recognize and challenge their distorted thoughts about their bodies. By identifying negative thought patterns and replacing them with more realistic and positive ones, clients can begin to see themselves in a healthier light.
This shift in perspective is crucial for breaking the cycle of obsessive behavior and self-criticism.
2. Mindfulness and Stress Reduction
Mindfulness techniques and stress reduction strategies are incredibly beneficial. These practices help clients stay present and reduce the anxiety associated with their body image.
Techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can foster a sense of inner calm and self-acceptance, making it easier to cope with the pressures of achieving the “perfect” physique.
3. Balanced Approach to Fitness
Encouraging a balanced approach to fitness is essential. This might involve setting more realistic workout goals, incorporating rest days, and exploring different types of physical activity that promote overall well-being rather than just muscle gain. It’s about finding joy in movement and fitness, rather than seeing it as a relentless pursuit of size.
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If you are a college student in Chicago or someone who works a full time job, you probably know how difficult it can be to find balance. Therapy can be used as a tool to help you discover options and then create a plan for making these options a reality.
4. Nutrition Counseling
Working with a nutritionist can help individuals develop a healthier relationship with food. Instead of rigid, obsessive eating patterns, the focus is on balanced, nutritious meals that support overall health and fitness goals. This shift can alleviate the anxiety around eating and promote a more relaxed and enjoyable approach to nutrition.
Our Chicago psychotherapists may be able to help link you to a nutritionist. In some cases, your insurance may even be able to pay for service.
5. Building a Support System
Creating a strong support system is vital. Encouraging clients to connect with others who share similar struggles, whether through support groups or therapy sessions, can provide a sense of community and understanding.
It’s important for individuals to know they are not alone and that others have successfully navigated similar challenges.
6. Addressing Underlying Issues
Often, bigorexia is linked to deeper psychological issues such as low self-esteem, past trauma, or societal pressures. Exploring these underlying issues in therapy can provide significant insights and healing.
By addressing the root causes, we can help individuals build a stronger foundation for self-acceptance and positive body image.
7. Professional Medical Support
In cases where anabolic steroids or other substances are involved, professional medical support is crucial. Collaborating with healthcare providers ensures that any physical health concerns are addressed, and clients receive comprehensive care.
Detoxification, medical monitoring, and addressing the side effects of performance-enhancing drugs are important steps in the recovery process.
Wrap Up
Bigorexia, or muscle dysmorphia, is a serious condition that requires attention and care. As a psychotherapist working with bodybuilders in Chicago, I’ve seen firsthand the toll it can take on individuals’ lives.
However, with the right support and treatment, it’s possible to overcome these challenges and develop a healthier, more balanced approach to fitness and body image. Remember, it’s not about the size of your muscles—it’s about the size of your happiness and well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling with bigorexia, don’t hesitate to seek help. There’s a path to recovery, and it starts with recognizing the signs and taking the first step towards a healthier you.
