Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Body Dysmorphic Disorder…Lets Talk About It (2 of 6)

As athletes we are taught to exceed beyond natural limits. Despite knowing that perfection is unattainable, we strive relentlessly to pursue it. It is this quest for perfection that can often have unfortunate psychological consequences. The second segment of this mental health series discusses Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD).

By definition BDD is a preoccupation with an imagined or exaggerated defect in physical appearance. (APA: DSM-IV) In its extreme forms people can become so preoccupied with their perceived defects that they mutilate themselves in attempts to fix them. The term “dysmorphia” describes a body part that seems to be grossly out of proportion, but is not.It is frequently experienced among athletes as they get in impeccable shape for an event, and then gradually lose that shape following the conclusion of the event. You know what I’m referring to…picking up those 2-5 lbs the day after a show and it feels like 50lbs. You look at yourself in the mirror and feel like “super glutton”; like your stomach is spewing over the sides of your pants and your back rolls are bulging. This feeling is normal, but should subside after several days of getting back on a regular healthy nutrition schedule.  Another common form in male bodybuilders is Muscle Dysmorphia, often referred to as “bigorexia.” In this case, persons affected obsess about not being muscular enough.

Although being critical of your physique is very common, it becomes problematic when the obsessions become so great that they are life consuming, interfere with social or occupational responsibilities, and all things are secondary to muscle gain…..and no, I’m not referring to spending extreme amounts of time in the gym while prepping for a show. People affected with various forms of dysmorphia look into a mirror and see images that are unrealistic. In its basic form, it can be treated with brief therapy, while at its worst it can require hospitalization from repeated attempts at mutilation or to prevent an individual from harming themselves.

Again, my point is not to alarm people, but to bring awareness to a frequently overlooked condition. The links below provide additional information about the disorder(s).

http://www.teenbodybuilding.com/derek43.htm (excellent article by Derek Charlebois on bodybuilding.com)