Vigorexia is an eating disorder also known as muscle dysmorphia or Adonis complex. It is characterized by an obsessive concern with achieving a muscular and defined body through excessive physical exercise and a restrictive diet. Although traditionally associated more with young men who practice bodybuilding, vigorexia increasingly affects people of different ages and genders. This disorder can have serious consequences for the physical and mental health of those who suffer from it, and its relationship with self-esteem is a fundamental aspect to take into account.
Origin and characteristics of vigorexia
Vigorexia has become a public health problem due to its increasing prevalence and both its physical and psychological implications. This disorder is part of body dysmorphic disorders, characterized by a distorted perception of one's own image and excessive concern about perceived defects in the body. Unlike anorexia or bulimia, which focus on thinness, vigorexia is characterized by an obsession with muscularity and body definition.
Symptoms and consequences of vigorexia
People who suffer from vigorexia usually dedicate a large part of their time to physical exercise, training excessively and excessively, even sacrificing other areas of their life in pursuit of achieving a muscular and sculpted body. In addition, they usually have a restrictive and unbalanced diet, with an excess of proteins and a restriction of fats and carbohydrates, which can lead to nutritional and health problems.
Among the most common symptoms of vigorexia are find:
- Obsession with physical appearance and muscles
- Constant comparison with others to evaluate one's own physique
- Excessive training, even despite injuries or extreme fatigue
- Concern about diet and calorie counting
- Social isolation due to exclusive dedication to exercise
The consequences of vigorexia can be devastating for the physical and mental health of those who suffer from it. Among the most frequent problems associated with this disorder are muscle and joint injuries, malnutrition, sleep disorders, anxiety and depression. Furthermore, obsession with one's physique can lead to chronic dissatisfaction with one's body image, perpetuating a cycle of constant self-demand and self-criticism.
Relationship between vigorexia and self-esteem
Self-esteem It is a determining factor in the development and maintenance of vigorexia. Low self-esteem can predispose a person to develop this disorder, since the obsession with the physique and the need for external validation can become a way to compensate for the lack of self-acceptance and self-confidence. On the other hand, vigorexia itself can contribute to further deteriorating self-esteem, generating a vicious circle that is difficult to break.
Impact of vigorexia on self-esteem
Vigorexia directly affects significant self-esteem of those who suffer from it. The obsession with the perfect body and ideal muscles can lead to chronic dissatisfaction with body image, generating feelings of inferiority, constant comparison with others and excessive self-criticism. People with vigorexia often base their self-worth on their physique and on others' perception of their appearance, which contributes to emotional fragility and dependence on external validation.
Lack of acceptance and valuing oneself, along with the constant search for physical perfection, can lead to a progressive deterioration of self-esteem. Constant dissatisfaction, the pressure to reach unattainable standards, and the lack of recognition of achievements contribute to a feeling of failure and personal devaluation, fueling the need to continue striving in pursuit of an unattainable ideal.
Treatment of vigorexia and self-esteem
Treatment of vigorexia must address both the physical and emotional and psychological aspects of the disorder. It is essential to work on rebuilding the affected person's self-esteem, helping them develop a realistic and healthy body image, based on acceptance and self-care. Some strategies that can be useful in treating vigorexia and improving self-esteem include:
Psychological therapy
Individual or group therapy can be of great help in working on identification and modification of distorted thoughts regarding the body and self-image. Through cognitive-behavioral therapy, negative and self-critical thinking patterns can be addressed, promoting self-acceptance and the construction of a solid and healthy self-esteem.
Nutritional counseling
It is It is important to have the support of health professionals specialized in nutrition to establish balanced dietary guidelines adapted to the needs of each individual. A healthy diet is essential to maintain an adequate weight and body composition, as well as to prevent nutritional deficiencies that can lead to health problems.
Body work and mindfulness
Practice mindfulness techniques Relaxation, meditation and mindfulness can be beneficial in improving the connection between mind and body, promoting body awareness and self-care. Body work, such as yoga or dance, can help reconnect with bodily sensations in a healthier and more pleasant way, moving away from the obsession with muscles and external appearance.
Social and family support
Having the support of family, friends and health professionals is essential in the process of recovering vigorexia and improving self-esteem. The support and understanding of loved ones, along with the advice of mental health specialists, can help the affected person overcome their fears, insecurities and obsessions, building a solid and resilient self-esteem.
Conclusions
Vigorexia is an eating disorder that is characterized by an obsession with muscle and body definition, with serious consequences for the physical and mental health of those who suffer from it. Its relationship with self-esteem is evident, since the lack of acceptance and appreciation of oneself can predispose to its development and aggravate its effects. Working on rebuilding self-esteem, through psychological therapy, nutritional counseling, body work and social support, is essential to overcome vigorexia and achieve a healthy and realistic body image.