The psychological disorder of vigorexia

Vigorexia, also known as muscle dysmorphia, is a psychological disorder characterized by an obsessive preoccupation with muscle development and a distorted perception of one's own body. It often manifests itself in the belief that one's body is insufficiently muscular or strong, leading to compulsive behaviors related to exercise and diet. This disorder can have serious implications for the physical and mental health of those who suffer from it. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, consequences and treatment options for vigorexia, as well as the importance of awareness and support for those affected.

Defining Vigorexia.

Vigorexia is a type of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), where the central concern is the body's musculature. Unlike other eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia, vigorexia focuses on muscle mass and body size. People with vigorexia often spend long hours in the gym, follow strict diets and, in some cases, turn to anabolic substances to increase their muscle mass. The distorted perception of their body leads them to see a weak and underdeveloped figure, even when they already have a muscular physique.

Causes of Vigorexia.

The causes of vigorexia are multifactorial, including biological, psychological and sociocultural factors.

Biological Factors.

• Genetics: There is evidence to suggest a genetic predisposition to obsessive-compulsive disorders, which may be related to vigorexia.
• Imbalances in neurotransmitters: Imbalances in brain chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine can contribute to the appearance of this disorder.

Psychological factors.

• Low self-esteem: Vigorexia is often associated with low self-esteem and a negative self-image.
• Emotional disorders: Depression, anxiety and other emotional disorders are common in individuals with vigorexia.

Sociocultural Factors.

• Media Influence: The glorification of extremely muscular bodies in the media and advertising can significantly influence body perception and behaviors related to vigorexia.
• Social pressure: The pressure to meet certain ideals of beauty and physique can lead to extreme behaviors in search of the "perfect" body.

Symptoms of Vigorexia.

Vigorexia manifests itself through a variety of physical, emotional and behavioral symptoms.

Physical Symptoms.

• Excessive exercise: Spending long hours at the gym, often at the expense of other important activities and adequate rest.
• Anabolic steroid use: The use of substances to increase muscle mass, which can have serious side effects.
• Extreme diets: Following highly restrictive diets and consuming excessive supplements.

Emotional and Behavioral Symptoms.

• Constant body dissatisfaction: Never feeling muscular or strong enough, despite objective evidence to the contrary.
• Obsession with body image: Spending a disproportionate amount of time worrying about the size and shape of your muscles.
• Social isolation: Avoiding social activities to follow exercise routines and strict diets.
• Perfectionistic Behaviors: An extreme focus on physical perfection, often linked to general perfectionism in other areas of life.

Consequences of Vigorexia.

Vigorexia can have serious consequences for physical and mental health.

Physical consequences.

• Muscle and joint injuries: Excessive exercise without adequate rest can lead to chronic injuries.
• Heart problems: The use of anabolic steroids and other supplements may increase the risk of heart disease.
• Liver and kidney problems: Steroids and other supplements can cause long-term damage to the liver and kidneys.
• Eating disorders: Vigorexia can be accompanied by other eating disorders, such as anorexia or bulimia.

Psychological consequences.

• Depression and anxiety: Vigorexia often coexists with other mental disorders, such as depression and anxiety.
• Social isolation: Obsession with exercise and diet can lead to social withdrawal and isolation.
• Low self-esteem: Despite physical exertion, people with vigorexia often have a negative self-image and low self-esteem.

Treatment of Vigorexia.

The treatment of vigorexia requires a comprehensive approach that includes medical, psychological and nutritional intervention.

Medical intervention.

• Medical Monitoring: Regular follow-up with a healthcare professional is crucial to monitor physical health and prevent serious complications.
• Medications: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to treat depression, anxiety, and other comorbid symptoms.

Psychological Therapy.

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is effective in helping people identify and change distorted thinking patterns and negative behaviors related to body image.
• Interpersonal therapy: This therapy focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and communication skills, which can reduce triggers for compulsive behavior.
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT can help people accept their thoughts and feelings without trying to change them, and commit to actions that improve their lives.

Nutritional Intervention.

• Nutritional counseling: Working with a registered dietitian to develop a balanced, healthy eating plan is essential for recovery.
• Nutrition Education: Teach patients about the importance of a balanced diet and the effects of vigorexia on the body.

The Importance of Awareness and Support.

Raising awareness about vigorexia is crucial to combating stigma and fostering a broader understanding of body dysmorphic disorders. Awareness campaigns can help identify early symptoms and provide support and resources to those who need it.

Education and Prevention.

• School Programs: Implementing educational programs on body image, healthy eating, and mental health in schools can help prevent the development of body dysmorphic disorders.
• Community awareness: Holding workshops and talks in the community can help destigmatize vigorexia and foster a supportive environment.

Support for Families and Friends.

• Involve loved ones: Providing information and resources to families and friends of people with vigorexia can help them better understand the disorder and how to offer support.
• Family support groups: Family support groups can provide a safe space to share experiences and get practical advice.

Promote Self-Acceptance and Positive Mental Health.

• Promoting positive body image: Encouraging self-acceptance and a healthy body image in the media and society can reduce pressure to meet unrealistic beauty ideals.
• Attention to mental health: Promoting the importance of mental health and emotional well-being is crucial to preventing and treating vigorexia.

Vigorexia is a complex body dysmorphic disorder that requires a deep understanding and comprehensive approach to treatment. The combination of biological, psychological and sociocultural factors contributes to its development, and its consequences can be devastating if not treated properly. Raising awareness, providing support to those affected, and promoting a culture of self-acceptance and positive mental health are essential to combat vigorexia and other body dysmorphic disorders. With the right treatment and support, recovery is possible, and people can learn to live healthy and fulfilling lives.