Body Dysmorphia in Men: A Growing Problem

What if the person you’re hardest on is the one you see in the mirror?

For some men, worrying about their appearance can become more than simply wanting to look good. It can become a constant battle with how they see themselves.

Checking the mirror repeatedly. Comparing yourself to other men. Hiding certain parts of your body. Avoiding social situations. Spending hours at the gym. Constantly thinking about your muscles, hair, skin, weight or body shape.

You might look completely fine to everyone else.

But you don't feel fine.

When looking good becomes never feeling good enough

Social media, fitness culture and unrealistic ideas about what a man should look like can make it difficult to feel comfortable in your own skin.

For some men, the goal keeps moving. Bigger muscles. Less body fat. Better hair. Better skin. A different face.

And no matter what changes, it still doesn't feel enough.

This can affect confidence, relationships, work and everyday life. It can also lead to excessive exercise, restrictive eating, avoiding people, or constantly seeking reassurance.

Men don't always talk about it

There can be a lot of pressure for men to appear confident and comfortable with themselves.

So instead of saying, “I’m struggling with how I look,” it might come out as:

“I just need to get fitter.”
“I need to sort myself out.”
“I'm never going to look good enough.”

Behind the words can be anxiety, shame and a very harsh view of themselves.

You don't have to keep fighting yourself

Counselling isn't about telling you that your concerns aren't real. It's about understanding what sits underneath them and how those thoughts and behaviours are affecting your life.

You don't need to wait until things become overwhelming before talking.

If your appearance is taking up more space in your head than you'd like, it might be time to talk about it.

Sometimes, feeling better isn't about changing how you look.

It's about changing the way you see yourself.