“There is this real machoism aspect that makes you feel like you can’t talk about mental health and your body as a man.”
[image description: (Image 1, above) - a photo of a man in the bathroom examining himself in a mirror while pinching the side of his waist. He has short red hair and a beard. He is shirtless, and tattoos cover his body. The bathroom walls and mirrors are riddled with images of athletic men and exercise techniques. In addition, words of encouragement around weight loss such as “Bigger, faster, stronger,” are written in the mirror. (Image 2, below) - an image of the man lifting a barbell at the gym. He wears a navy blue t-shirt and black sweatpants. He is surrounded by other gym members that stare at him in judgment.] ~Photography: Jena Hovey
Sean, 37 - Michigan
While bullied in elementary school, Sean became aware of his body and the expectations to be fit and strong. Since then, he has struggled with his body-image and never feeling good enough. Sean has battled obsessive calorie counting and over-exercising, continually comparing himself to men’s images in fitness magazines and super-hero movies. Over time, he came to recognize that he suffered from a mental health disorder called Body Dysmorphia Disorder. Still, he found it difficult to discuss or seek help due to continued stigmas and gender narratives.
Culturally, body-image issues or disorders are viewed as a female-identified problem. Less research and attention are given to male-identified individuals, much due to stereotypes and men being less vocal. Men tend to have more shame or embarrassment and therefore seek treatment less frequently. Body Dysmorphia Disorder (BDD) is a disabling preoccupation with perceived flaws in appearance that can affect all gender identities. BDD causes devastating distress and interferes with one’s ability to function socially. It is not uncommon to be unhappy about parts of our body, but if the unhappiness leads to constant obsession and loss of daily function, such as Sean, a person may be diagnosed with BDD. Though Sean still struggles, he is trying to become more open about his experience.
Sean’s story looks at body-image through the lens of masculinity within our culture and our continued silence around mental health.
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