Bigorexia And Muscle Dysmporphia
- Reverse Anorexia In Men

Bigorexia (or muscle dysmorphia) can be thought of as a reverse anorexia in men. It's most common in males, and it is not an eating disorder per se, but it is essentially the result of a distorted body image.

Muscle Dysmorphia - Reverse Anorexia In Men

In this case, the individual believes that they are too skinny, or not muscular enough - thus the term, 'reverse anorexia'. We live in a world where eating disorders and the media are in always in conflict.

Women are faced with near constant weight loss ads and pictures of super-thin, beautiful models.

Men face the same weight loss ads, but they feel more pressure to become that built-up, muscular stature that is often portrayed. Muscle dysmorphia may does not allow them to see that they may already be muscular enough.

They might even feel total disgust with themselves for not being able to achieve what they think of as the ideal body shape.

If someone is suffering from bigorexia, they will likely become obsessive-compulsive about exercise.

Their focus will be on nothing but building muscle mass. This quest could also involve the use (perhaps abuse) of anabolic steroids.

Mirror Checking - A Sign Of Bigorexia (Muscle Dysmorphia)?

Here are a few additional signs and symptoms of bigorexia (muscle dysmorphia) to watch for:

• Mirror-checking; always looking at themselves
• Obsessing over the amount of protein in their diet
• Becoming agitated if they miss a meal or snack
• Missing out on time with family or friends in order to exercise

People with "reverse anorexia" typically have self esteem issues or a poor sense of self. They may also experience anxiety disorders, display anxiety attacks symptoms, or have some other kind of mood disorder.

Despite all the mirror-checking, they are actually ashamed of their bodies and do not enjoy seeing their reflection in the mirror.

It's the deep obsession-compulsion that drives them to do it.

Treatment For Bigorexia - Cognitive Restructuring

Treatment involves cognitive-behavioral therapy (cognitive restructuring), but other methods are currently being investigated.

Cognitive therapy basically means working with a therapist to "re-program" the brain into thinking new and more healthy thoughts.

This kind of therapy can be a very long process, but it's extremely common. It is used in treatments for anorexia as well as many other disorders.