Top 5 Causes of Vigorexia
The Main Causes of Vigorexia are very important. Also, Vigorexia or muscle dysmorphia is a type of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). This falls under the category of Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders, which is different from “Eating” disorders like anorexia . Regardless, both disorders involve body image.
When you think of body image disorders, what comes to your mind? For most people, this makes them think of teenagers and anorexia . This is just one problem. The cause Vigorexia mainly affects male bodybuilders, athletes and teenagers. It is defined as an obsession to gain muscle . A person with Vigorexia may feel like they will never be big enough, no matter how much they hit the gym. They will often spend tons of money on supplements and practicing abnormal food cycles.
In some cases, substance abuse becomes a problem. As you can imagine, it is extremely unhealthy. Researchers don’t necessarily know what causes Vigorexia . However, this can happen due to the combination of these five risk factors. So, check out Top 5 Causes of Vigorexia.
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Cultural Pressure: Cultural Pressure is also a cause of vigorexia. From movies to magazines, muscle and leanness are put on a pedestal. Just take a look at the heartthrob or superhero from a movie. They are generally well built, burly and healthy. This suggests that the more muscle the body has, the better it will be. In turn, a person may feel pressure about what they “should” look like. Teenagers are more vulnerable as they are going through many physical changes. Insecurity and low self-esteem are high all this time, thus causing Vigorexia .
Social Pressure: In addition to the media, even family and partner can contribute to body image problems. For example, an American trade magazine found that Vigorexia is linked to the perception that females are supposed to like it. The perception of male peers can also play this role. Peer influence is very strong. They can be the driving force for risky behaviors.
If something looks “cool” – like having a lot of muscle – people are more likely to follow suit.
Even family members can contribute to social pressure. Sometimes parents or siblings may comment negatively on a relative’s appearance. This can result in your own struggles with body image and self-esteem.
Athletic Expectations : One of the main causes of Vigorexia involves sports performance. Athletes are vulnerable to high expectations, making them even more concerned about their physical health and image. It is, after all, what will affect the quality of athletic performance.
They are also susceptible to taking supplements, steroids , or both. If the lack of self-esteem is also present, the chances of Vigorexia will also be greater.
Poor Neurological Health: Risk factors for Vigorexia are not always environmental. The balance of neurotransmitters can also fuel this disorder. The main focus is serotonin. This “feel good” “brain chemical” affects all kinds of behaviors, from emotional and cognitive skills to appetite and motor coordination. Low levels are linked to depression, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders. These issues can certainly play a role in Vigorexia . Body image disorders are often treated with serotonin reuptake inhibitors. These medications are designed to reduce serotonin levels to a normal level.
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Genetic Predisposition: Genes can play an important role in the health problems of Vigorexia . It is no different from mental illnesses such as Vigorexia and other forms of disorders. But unlike peer pressure, you cannot avoid genetic predisposition.
About 8% of patients with body image disorders have a family member with Vigorexia . Additionally, 7% of patients with this disorder have a first-degree relative with OCD. When there is a genetic predisposition, extra care is needed to control for other factors.
Depending on the person, treatment for Vigorexia will vary. It may include a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Emotional support from friends and family is super important.