'Bigorexia': What You Need To Know

Feb 28, 2017

3 min read

Whilst researching male body dysmorphia on the internet, I came across the term 'bigorexia'. It was the first time that I had heard this term. After looking into it, I realised why. It was Muscle Dysmorphic Disorder, a topic that is rarely covered in the media, and when it is, it's on a small scale. Due to this, I had little to no knowledge about the disorder. No doubt, male models as well as the general male population, suffer from this, many in silence.

Consequently, I want to start at the beginning by sharing with you what the disorder is, the symptoms, who it affects, the risks, and how to help. Hopefully, this will, in turn, raise more awareness of the muscle dysmorphia.

What is Muscle Dysmorphic Disorder (MDD)?

As stated by The Independent, Muscle Dysmorphic Disorder, often called 'bigorexia' by the media, is an anxiety which causes someone to see themselves as being smaller, despite actually being big and muscular. The disorder is often seen to be the opposite to anorexia.

What are the Symptoms?

As stated on the Body Dysmorphic Disorder Foundation website, there are many characteristics associated with muscle dysmorphia. They include:

- Excessive time and over-exertion in weight lifting to increase muscle mass

- Panicking over not being able to do a workout

- Overtraining or training when injured

- Using special diets or excessive protein supplements

- Steroid abuse and often substance misuse

- Distress if exposed, leading to covering up the body.

- Compulsive comparing of physique with another

- Significant distress or mood swings

- Prioritising one's schedule over everything else or interference in relationships and ability to work.

- Often other body concerns, hair, skin, penis size etc.

Who does it affect?

According to The Independent, Rob Wilson, the chair of the Body Dysmorphic Disorder states:

"We know about 10 percent of men in the gym may have muscle dysmorphia".

However, he goes on to say that due to lack of awareness of the disorder, there are still many undiagnosed cases.

"There are thousands upon thousands with it, who are going to be excessively concerned about their appearance, having very poor self-esteem, and also feeling very anxious and worried".

"Some individuals can become very depressed and hopeless and that can even lead to suicide".

The Risks

As stated on the Mirror Mirror Eating Disorders website, there are many risks involved with the disorder. They include:

- Frequent injuries due to overexercise

- Damage to muscles, joints and tendons

- Liver Damage

- Kidney Damage

- Heart Problems

How to help?

Individuals with the disorder don't often ask for help, however, seeking help and support is the best way to combat this disorder. According to Mirror Mirror Eating Disorders, muscle dysmorphia responds to the same treatment used for eating disorders. For example:

- Therapy

- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

- Nutritional Therapy

- Online Support

Ultimately, help and treatment should mainly focus on normalising eating, exercise patterns and addressing obsessional thoughts.

Apart from the Body Dysmorphic Disorder Foundation, here are a list of websites to contact if you need any help or advice: