The Negative Impacts of Body Dysmorphia

We’re human. All of us have a history of dealing with negative thoughts about how we look. It's a part of life. However, with the rise of fitness and gym culture, I think we’re all aware of when our self-image crosses the chasm from being healthy to straight-up excessive. When it gets to this point it starts to impact our lives in ways that aren’t clear-cut.

Avoidance of Social Situations: People with body dysmorphia often avoid social interactions, fearing judgment or scrutiny about their perceived body flaws. 

Strained Relationships: The obsession with appearance can strain relationships, as individuals may look for excessive reassurance, avoid intimacy, or become distant. 

Reduced Productivity: The mental stress caused by body dysmorphia can reduce concentration and productivity at school and work. People may spend excessive time grooming, checking themselves out in the mirrors, or avoiding work.

Body dysmorphia is often associated with mental health issues that include depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, and eating disorders. 

Over-training: People with body dysmorphia will probably do excessive or compulsive exercise routines in an attempt to "fix" their perceived flaws, which can lead to overtraining, increasing the risk of injuries, muscle strain, and fatigue.

Fear of Rejection: People with body dysmorphia are often insecure that their flaws will lead to rejection from potential partners. This fear then leads people to avoid dating altogether or to constantly seek reassurance from their partners.

Unhealthy Comparisons: Body dysmorphia can lead to feelings of insecurity and jealousy. The constant negative self-talk results in comparing themselves to others, who may have “better” physiques. But here’s the kicker that a lot of people don't get through their heads…There will ALWAYS be someone with a better body.