Rising Cases of Bigorexia Among Youth

A study says more young people are becoming obsessed with their muscle size.

This obsession is a mental health condition.

It is called "bigorexia".

An eating disorder therapist said: "Bigorexia is a psychological condition…which involves a distorted self-image that focuses specifically on muscle size."

Sufferers get stressed over their lack of muscularity.

Bigorexia can affect those who work out regularly and have the physique of a bodybuilder.

Researchers said bigorexia was rising in teenagers and people in their twenties.

The therapist said many factors cause young people to worry about their body shape.

She said: "People with low self-esteem…or obsessive-compulsive tendencies are more vulnerable."

Social media may add to this problem.

Youngsters are flooded with images of people with the "perfect" body.

Another cause may be the marketing of muscle-building supplements.