It is estimated that over 4.5% of students in college suffer from Body Dysmorphia symptoms. This is because students in Tertiary Institutions are mostly concerned about the appearance of their skin, followed by their hair, nose, weight, stomach, height, teeth, breast and other parts of their body. What then is Body Dysmorphia?
Body dysmorphia is a mental health condition that involves an individual (especially adolescents and students) constantly thinking about perceived flaws in their physical appearance. It often results in excessive anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, and can interfere with one’s productivity and social life. Body dysmorphia is on the rise among students in tertiary institutions, and this trend has become a major cause for concern.
According to a survey conducted by the University of California, Los Angeles, about 75% of college students have experienced body dysmorphia symptoms at some point during their academic career. The rise in body dysmorphia cases is primarily due to the constant comparison and unrealistic beauty standards set by social media.
The influence of social media platforms like Instagram, Tik Tok, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, all characterized by images showcasing the ideal body types in the media, has increased concerns about body size and shape. These platforms have created a culture of “perfect” bodies that promote impossible beauty standards that many young adults find challenging to attain. As a result, students are more inclined to engage in unhealthy and unrealistic dieting practices and potentially dangerous weight loss measures that often lead to eating disorders like anorexia nervosa and bulimia.
Additionally, there is a particular emphasis on the male body's image in popular media, which has resulted in a significant increase in male body dysmorphia cases. Boys are now more concerned with their looks, including muscle mass, body size, and strength, which has created an additional strain on their mental wellbeing. As a consequence of this, there is an increase in steroid use amongst male students engaging in the pursuit of an ideal body.
It is essential to raise awareness of the importance of seeking support to overcome body dysmorphia symptoms. Counseling services, mental health groups, and community support, can offer significant help to those struggling with the condition. Students can also be proactive and make an effort to protect their mental wellbeing, including critical analysis of social media content and engaging in physical activities that can promote overall wellbeing.
In conclusion, Body dysmorphia is a rising concern among students in tertiary institutions, and social media is primarily to blame. The environment is creating pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards, leading to an increase in unhealthy dieting practices, eating disorders, and steroid use. I strongly believe that Awareness campaigns are necessary to remind students that everyone is unique and that happiness comes from within, and counseling services should be available to support students with body dysmorphia symptoms.
Glory Daniel- Anthony
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