WHY MEN OBSESS OVER MUSCLES

Experts explain how muscle dysmorphia compels men to follow tough diets

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The body dissatisfaction increases. "It's clear that the ideal for male bodies has become increasingly and unrealistically muscularised over recent decades — just look at the change in children's action hero toys or leading men in movie franchises," notes Dr Mountford.

Unlike general body dissatisfaction, which might involve occasional frustration with appearance, muscle dysmorphia is a persistent, obsessive concern that affects daily life. As a result, men with this disorder often spend excessive hours exercising, follow extreme diets, and may misuse supplements or steroids to gain muscle.

It has been a growing issue for the past decade, as Dr Mountford says. Depending upon criteria used to define body image concerns and the methods used to measure it, research suggests that up to 40 to 50 per cent of men report dissatisfaction with their bodies, especially around muscularity and tone.

Moreover, social media, influencer culture and fitness trends compound the pressure on men to maintain a sculpted physique.

Who is most at risk?

As Dr Mountford and Dr Sreevidhya Srinivas, Clinical Psychologist at Medcare Camali Clinic, explain, those most affected are often in their late teens to early 30s a period that typically coincides with heightened concern about self-image and social acceptance, notes Dr Mountford.