A new study finds a rising number of boys and young men are being diagnosed with muscle dysmorphia, a mental health condition that makes them feel “too small” or “not muscular enough.”
Muscle dysmorphia—often called “bigorexia”—is becoming a serious problem in boys and young men, a new study warns.
Unlike anorexia, which centers on the fear of being “too big,” muscle dysmorphia involves feeling “too small” or “not muscular enough.”
A narrative review of decades of research finds the rise likely comes from a mix of genetic, biological, psychological, and social factors.
Researchers say social media, fitness influencers, and celebrity culture promote a “lean and shredded” ideal that can turn workouts and eating into an obsession. But they stress muscle dysmorphia is not just about vanity.
It’s a recognized mental health condition—and early signs often go unnoticed by parents, coaches, and clinicians.
Red flags include compulsive exercise, rigid or excessive eating, and using performance-enhancing substances like anabolic steroids and supplements, which carry serious risks such as heart problems and aggression.
Other warning signs include withdrawing from friends or activities, constant worry about body size, or letting workouts interfere with school, work, or relationships.
Common treatments include cognitive behavioral therapy and family-based therapy.
The authors of the review note muscle dysmorphia often overlaps with depression, anxiety, and substance use, complicating treatment.
One author says, “People with muscle dysmorphia should seek professional help given the serious physical and mental health consequences of the disorder.”
The authors say these findings underscore the need for more awareness, better screening, and prevention and treatment programs tailored to adolescents and young adults.
Source: The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health
Author Affiliations: University of California, San Francisco, University of Toronto, Liverpool University, Suzhou, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, UCLA
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