How Bigorexia Impacts Mental Health Among Gay Men

Alright, let’s talk about something that doesn’t get nearly enough attention: bigorexia—also known as muscle dysmorphia. It’s like Captain America constantly pushing himself to be stronger, faster, and better—never quite feeling like he’s reached his full potential—obsessive, relentless, and never satisfied, where no matter how strong, toned, or built you are, your brain still screams, “Not enough!”

For many gay and bisexual men, the pressure to look a certain way isn’t just an aesthetic preference—it’s an expectation. And that expectation can become an obsession. When your gym routine goes from “self-care” to “self-destruction,” when your diet is stricter than a reality show contract, and when your self-worth is measured in inches (of biceps, of course), we’re talking about more than just fitness goals.

Bigorexia is real, and it’s wrecking mental health in gay and bisexual men.

What Is Bigorexia?

First things first: bigorexia is body dysmorphia. Let’s say that again for the people in the back.

Bigorexia falls under the larger umbrella of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD)—a mental health condition in which a person is obsessively preoccupied with perceived flaws in their appearance. While typical body dysmorphia often focuses on weight, skin, or facial features, bigorexia is laser-focused on muscle size, tone, and definition.

Here’s the kicker: someone with bigorexia can be objectively jacked, shredded, stacked—whatever term you prefer—but their brain still convinces them they’re small, weak, or out of shape. It’s not just about getting “bigger.” It’s about never feeling big enough.

And that’s a problem.

Why Are Gay Men More Susceptible to Bigorexia?

Gay men are significantly more likely to struggle with body dysmorphia than their straight counterparts. In fact, studies show that gay and bisexual men experience body dissatisfaction at rates 3 to 6 times higher than heterosexual men (Schmidt, et al., 2022). But why?

1. The Unspoken (but Loud) Beauty Standard

Let’s be real: the ideal male body in gay culture is basically a superhero suit. Lean, muscular, chiseled abs, sculpted arms, and zero visible body fat. You see it on Instagram, dating apps, and yes, even in bars and clubs.

There’s a not-so-subtle expectation that you should be fit—because, in some circles, that’s the currency for desirability and status. If you don’t fit the mold, you might feel invisible, unattractive, or not “good enough.”

2. Social Media: The Ultimate Distortion Machine

We don’t need to tell you that social media is a highlight reel, not reality. But when your feed is flooded with sculpted bodies, perfect lighting, and just the right amount of editing, it’s hard not to compare.

A study published in 2022 found that the more time gay men spend on social media, the higher their levels of body dissatisfaction and disordered eating behaviors (Schmidt, et al., 2022). It’s an endless cycle: scroll, compare, feel inadequate, push yourself harder.

And let’s not even start on sex apps, where the phrase “no fats, no femmes” is still a thing (gross).

3. A History of Rejection & Perfectionism

Many gay men grow up experiencing rejection, bullying, or internalized shame. When you spend your formative years feeling “not good enough,” it’s easy to believe that changing your body is the ticket to acceptance.

Perfectionism is already high among LGBTQ+ individuals, and bigorexia is just another way it manifests. It’s not about health—it’s about control. And when OCD or OCPD tendencies are in the mix, the obsession with muscle can spiral even faster.

Is It Just Fitness, or Is It Bigorexia?

Look, wanting to be fit and healthy is great. But there’s a line between self-care and self-destruction. How can you know if you’ve crossed the line? Ask yourself:

• Do you constantly feel “too small” or “not muscular enough” no matter how much you work out?
• Do you avoid social situations or Hollywood Beach on Chicago’s north side because you’re unhappy with your body?
• Are you spending hours obsessing over your physique in the mirror or taking endless progress pictures?
• Do you feel more anxious about posting on social media when your body is exposed?
• Do you feel anxious, guilty, or depressed if you skip a workout?
• Are you using testosterone, human growth hormone, or non-medically necessary supplements to “fix” your body?
• Do you push through injuries or exhaustion because “resting” makes you feel lazy?

If you answered yes to any of these, bigorexia could be at play.

The Hidden Dangers of Bigorexia

The mental toll is bad enough, but let’s talk about the physical risks.

• Overtraining Syndrome: When you train too much, too often, your body breaks down instead of getting stronger. Chronic fatigue, joint pain, and even immune system suppression can follow.

• Disordered Eating: Bigorexia often comes with restrictive eating patterns, obsession with protein intake, and even purging behaviors. Many gay men struggling with body dysmorphia also have eating disorders—but they go undiagnosed because these disorders are often seen as “women’s issues.”

• Supplement & Steroid Abuse: Some guys turn to testosterone injections, human growth hormone, and weight-gaining supplements to speed up results. But these can wreak havoc on hormones, cause heart problems, and trigger mood disorders.

If you’re asking why a psychologist cares about physical risks, good question. It’s because the health of your body and the health of your mind aren’t separate. Taking care of your body is an aspect of caring for your nervous system and mental health.

Breaking the Cycle: What You Can Do

If you’re struggling, you don’t have to figure this out alone. Here’s where to start:

1. Challenge the Narrative

That six-pack on your timeline? Probably FaceTuned. The shredded guy at the gym? Might be miserable inside. Remember: your worth is not tied to your body fat percentage.

2. Reduce Social Media Exposure

Unfollow accounts that make you feel bad about yourself. Curate a feed that includes diverse body types, body-positive influencers, and content that makes you feel good.

3. Work With a Therapist

Therapists who specialize in gay body dysmorphia and LGBTQ+ mental health can help you untangle the root causes of bigorexia and develop a healthier relationship with your body.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been particularly effective in treating muscle dysmorphia and Internal Family Systems (IFS) can help you befriend and care for the part of you that demands more.

4. Reframe Fitness Goals

Exercise should make you feel stronger, healthier, and happier—not more anxious. Instead of focusing on aesthetics, try shifting toward functional fitness, mobility, and overall well-being. What do you want your body to do for you? How will your fitness goals today impact your body in 20 years?

5. Support Each Other

The gay “community” already fights against enough external pressure—let’s not add to it. Compliment people for things beyond their looks. Be honest about your own struggles. Let’s rewrite the narrative together.

Your Body Is Not the Problem

As a gay psychologist, I want to emphasize this: bigorexia is body dysmorphia, period. It’s not about being healthy—it’s about chasing an impossible ideal that keeps moving further away.
If this sounds like you, take a breath.

Your worth isn’t measured by your reflection. You’re enough right now, exactly as you are. And if you need support, you’re not alone—we have affirming therapists who understand and can help.

This blog is made for informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. The information in this blog is not intended to (1) replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified licensed health care provider, (2) create or establish a provider-patient relationship, or (3) create a duty for us to follow up with you.