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THERE has yet to be specific guidelines on the treatment of muscle dysmorphia in Malaysia, although the Health Ministry has come up with guidelines on the symptoms of its umbrella category, body dysmorphic disorder (BDD).
The ministry in an advisory also says that, fortunately, BDD is treatable.
“BDD can be effectively managed through cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which helps reshape negative thought patterns, and/or the use of psychotropic medications to support emotional well-being.”
CBT is a widely used and evidence-based form of psychotherapy that helps individuals manage mental health challenges by addressing the connection between their thoughts, feelings and behaviours.
Experts have described the method as a structured, short-term approach that focuses on identifying and changing negative thinking and behaviour patterns.
It involves identifying negative thought patterns, challenging and reframing thoughts, modifying behavioural strategies, and developing coping skills. Similarly, CBT can be used to treat muscle dysmorphia.
Here are some symptoms of muscle dysmorphia:
> Obsessive focus on muscular appearance: Constantly feeling that one’s body is insufficiently muscular, even when others perceive it as well-built.
> Excessive exercising: Spending long hours at the gym, often prioritising workouts over personal, social, or professional responsibilities.
> Overly strict dietary habits: Following rigid eating plans, often involving excessive protein consumption or avoiding foods perceived as “unhealthy.”
> Compulsive body checking: Frequently checking mirrors, measuring muscles, or obsessing over perceived imperfections. This habit may temporarily relieve anxiety but can also intensify a fixation on flaws.
> Constant physical comparisons: A persistent urge to compare the body or features with others often leads to feelings of inadequacy. This habit can deepen insecurities and fuel unrealistic standards of beauty.
> Excessive grooming or fixating on dressing: A person may spend an inordinate amount of time and effort perfecting his/her appearance, often going to extremes with makeup, hairstyling, or clothing to conceal perceived defects. This behaviour can disrupt daily life and erode confidence over time.
> Skin picking or smoothing: In an attempt to “fix” perceived skin imperfections, individuals may engage in harmful behaviours like picking or excessively touching their skin. This can lead to physical harm, such as scarring and emotional distress.
> Overuse of supplements or anabolic steroids: Reliance on supplements or even risky substances like steroids to enhance muscle growth despite potential health risks.
According to mental health experts, those with muscle dysmorphia, a subset of BDD, often develop orthorexia, an eating disorder characterised by an obsession with eating healthy foods.
Sources: Health Ministry, healthline.com
