The pursuit of thinness has become an increasingly evident trend, often reinforced by social media. On different social platforms, it is possible to find people associating beauty, success and happiness with an excessively thin body. However, behind this phenomenon, which has gained new momentum since the 1990s, it is possible to observe a considerable negative impact on the mental and physical health of women and young people, in particular. The romanticization of extreme thinness can lead individuals to internalize these standards as absolute truths, generating pressure to achieve this ideal of beauty.
The desire for a thin and perfect body can trigger an image disorder that is still little known by the population: body dysmorphia (or body dysmorphic disorder). The condition, which is also popularly known as “imaginary ugliness”, causes extreme dissatisfaction with subtle, or even non-existent, defects in appearance. This can increase the risk of developing eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia, and body image disorders.
Generally, body dysmorphia causes a distorted perception of one’s own image, generating negative feelings, such as anxiety and low self-esteem, especially when the person believes that the “imperfection” cannot be corrected.
Other warning signs:
Embarrassment and social isolation: individuals may feel ashamed of their physical characteristics, which often increases social isolation. They avoid parties, events and even everyday interactions so as not to be judged by their appearance.
Obsession with body image: body dysmorphia generates an obsession with one’s own image, leading to compulsive behaviors, such as excessive use of mirrors, constant comparisons with others and a constant search for external validation.
Excessive cosmetic procedures: Many people resort to excessive surgeries and cosmetic procedures in an attempt to correct what they perceive as body defects.
Development of eating disorders: Preoccupation with body and weight can lead to the development of eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia.
Long-term physical consequences: Extremely restrictive or purging behaviors can cause malnutrition, hormonal imbalances, heart problems, and other long-term body problems.
Diagnosing body dysmorphia can be challenging, as many people feel ashamed and avoid sharing their feelings and symptoms with friends and family. However, detailed psychological testing is usually performed, and the specialist will investigate the presence of compulsive behaviors, such as excessive body checking.
Body dysmorphia tends to become more evident after multiple plastic surgeries or invasive procedures to alter appearance.
Treatment usually involves psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, and in some cases, the use of antidepressant or anti-anxiety medications to treat symptoms.
Family and friends play a key role in forming a support network to help people deal with difficulties with self-acceptance and problems related to the quest for thinness or the perfect body. It is essential that this network offers emotional support, creates a welcoming environment and encourages the search for professional help.
References:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/body-dysmorphic-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20353938 Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board