Muscle dysmorphia and mental health symptoms among physically active urban adults in Paraguay: a cross-sectional study
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Muscle dysmorphia and vigorexia have emerged as significant mental health concerns, particularly among physically active adults exposed to intensified body ideals through social media. This study examined the relationship between physical exercise, body image, and psychological well-being in 153 urban adults from Paraguay. Sociodemographic variables, physical activity patterns, supplement use, and social media exposure were included, along with validated psychometric measures: the Adonis Complex Questionnaire (ACQ), Muscle Dysmorphia Disorder Inventory (MDDI), Body Esteem Scale (BES), Physical Appearance Comparison Scale (PACS), and the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale–21 (DASS-21). Results showed a high prevalence of depressive, anxiety, and stress symptoms (58.2% in each case). The ACQ was positively associated with exercise time, body-related concerns, and muscle dysmorphia scores; conversely, body esteem was inversely associated with muscular distortion. Social media use was linked to greater body comparison and lower self-esteem. Significant differences by sex and occupation were observed for muscle dysmorphia and emotional distress, with higher vulnerability noted among men and working students. Additionally, 39.2% of participants reported supplement use, more than half without professional supervision. Overall, the findings indicate that the combination of intense exercise, exposure to unrealistic body ideals, and unsupervised supplementation constitutes a risk pattern for mental health. Preventive strategies should include body image education, promotion of healthy behavioral habits, and early detection of vigorexia and muscle dysmorphia in sports and community settings.
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