Thanks,
Interested

Dear Interested,

Unfortunately, you've heard right. From time to time, it's not too uncommon for many people to experience bouts of insecurity about their appearance. However, when these thoughts take over one's life, serious problems may follow.

In the past few years, researchers have encountered men and women who have a distorted perception of their muscularity (or lack thereof). They feel that their muscles are inadequate, even if they appear strong and built to others. This condition has been tentatively termed "muscle dysmorphia," and may be referred to as bigarexia or megarexia. Since men are facing continually increasing societal and cultural pressures to have well-developed, muscular bodies, more men than women are believed to be affected by this disorder. Their constant preoccupation with body size often results in compulsive exercise and weight training, even with injuries present. They may sacrifice social situations and relationships, job or school responsibilities, and/or family life to meet their rigid exercise routine. Some may even resort to using steroids or other muscle-building medications or products despite being aware of their dangerous consequences.

Although exercising and weight training compulsively are characteristics of muscle dysmorphia, it is not considered an eating disorder because it does not meet the criteria for any specific one (which might then categorize it as an eating disorder not otherwise specified). Although formal criteria for diagnosis of muscle dysmorphia have not yet been established, it could also share symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, a phobic response, or a state of anxiety.

If you or someone you know has a distorted body image that interferes with the enjoyment of life, seek some help. Consider an evaluation by a therapist who works with athletes and body image. A check-up with a health care provider familiar with these issues is also a good idea to make sure one is in good health. At Columbia, call x4-2284 to make an appointment for a physical exam and x4-2468 to see a therapist at Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS). Outside of Columbia, see your health care provider for referrals.

Alice

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