American culture is heavily focused on physical appearance — and everyone feels it. Whether it’s content seen online, casual conversations or challenges finding inclusive clothing, everyone has felt the societal shift of chasing an ideal physical appearance.
Unfortunately, this “perfect body” isn’t realistic, yet many try to achieve it even so. This often leads to unhealthy methods, including steroid use and eating disorders, as a means of controlling physical appearance and changes in one’s body.
What’s the common link between eating disorders and steroid use?
Steroid use and eating disorders may seem unrelated at first glance, but they actually share some crucial connections, primarily revolving around body image and the desire for control over one’s physical appearance. Both problems can be triggered from dissatisfaction with one’s body and the pressures of society to maintain a certain physical appearance — this combination often leads to perusing unhealthy practices in order to keep one’s body looking a certain way.
In general, steroid use often happens with individuals, particularly men, who want to increase muscle mass and strength, a desire often driven by media portrayals of the “ideal” male body as muscular and lean. Some men turn to anabolic steroids as a quick way to achieve these results, despite the potential for health risks, including hormonal imbalances, liver damage and even psychological changes like aggression.
On the other hand, eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are commonly linked to individuals, with women being the most commonly diagnosed, who aim to achieve a certain thinness or body shape. These disorders are characterized by extreme behaviors around food, such as severe restriction, binge eating or purging, all fueled by a distorted body image and fear of weight gain.
The connection between steroid use and eating disorders lies in the shared root causes — societal expectations and personal body dissatisfaction. People who suffer from either issue often have a distorted view of their bodies and feel deep pressure to look a certain way in order to fit in.
Moreover, both steroid use and certain eating disorders can lead to similar psychological issues like anxiety, depression and obsessive tendencies around body image. The internal struggle to meet unrealistic standards can significantly impact someone’s mental health, reinforcing the cycle of harmful behaviors.
What are the signs?
Identifying the signs of steroid use and eating disorders can be challenging, especially since individuals might go to great lengths to hide these behaviors. However, certain physical, behavioral, and emotional indicators can suggest someone is struggling with these issues.
Signs steroids may be involved include:
Physical signs
- Rapid muscle growth — Noticeable increase in muscle mass in a short period, which might seem unnatural;
- Skin changes — Development of acne, especially on the back and shoulders;
- Hair changes — Hair loss or thinning on the scalp and increased body/facial hair;
- Fluid retention — Swelling of the hands, feet or face due to water retention;
- Voice changes — In females, a deepening voice may occur.
Behavioral signs
- Aggression — Heightened irritability or aggressive behavior, often referred to as “roid rage;”
- Secretive behavior — Being secretive about where they are going, what they are doing or being secretive about packages they are receiving;
- Compulsive workouts — Spending excessive time at the gym, often with an obsessive focus on weightlifting.
Emotional signs
- Mood Swings — Unpredictable changes in mood, ranging from euphoria to depression.
- Obsession with body image — Heavy focus on body size, shape and definition.
Signs of eating disorders often overlap with signs of steroid use, but there are some key differences. However, you will notice the heavy obsession with appearance often motivates both behaviors.
Physical signs
- Noticeable weight changes — Significant weight loss, gain or fluctuations, depending on the type of disorder;
- GI problems — Complaints of stomach pain, constipation or acid reflux;
- Fatigue — Constant tiredness or lack of energy;
- Menstrual irregularities — Missed or irregular periods in females.
Behavioral signs
- Food Rituals: Cutting food into tiny pieces, rearranging food on the plate, or eating very slowly;
- Avoiding meals — Skipping meals or making excuses not to eat in social settings;
- Excessive exercise — Compulsive exercise routines that interfere with daily life.
Emotional signs
- Distorted body image — Fear of gaining weight or having an unrealistic view of body size;
- Withdrawal — Avoiding social events, particularly those involving food;
- Anxiety or depression — High levels of stress, worry or sadness related to body image and eating.
Recognizing these signs is a critical step, but it is equally important to approach your loved one with sensitivity and empathy. If you suspect someone is struggling with unhealthy habits as a result of poor body image, encouraging them to seek professional help can be instrumental in their recovery. A healthcare professional can provide the necessary support and treatment plan tailored to their needs.
Looking for that support?
Whether it’s general body image struggles, an obsessive focus on appearance or full blown eating disorders and/or steroid use/abuse, the staff at Seeds of Hope is here to help. To get started on your recovery journey today. Fill out an online contact form here.
