What is body checking?

Body checking refers to repeatedly checking one's body for perceived flaws. It's a common behavior associated with several mental health conditions, particularly body dysmorphia and eating disorders. It's not simply about looking in the mirror; it encompasses a range of behaviors aimed at assessing and judging one's appearance.

Here's a breakdown of key aspects of body checking:

Behaviors Associated with Body Checking:

• Frequent weighing: Obsessively checking weight on a scale, multiple times a day.
• Excessive measuring: Taking measurements of various body parts (e.g., waist, hips, thighs) repeatedly.
• Constant mirror checking: Spending extensive time scrutinizing one's appearance in the mirror, often focusing on perceived flaws.
• Comparing oneself to others: Constantly comparing one's body to others' bodies, often feeling inadequate.
• Feeling for body fat: Repeatedly pinching or poking at one's body to assess fat distribution.
• Checking clothing fit: Constantly assessing how clothes fit and whether they highlight perceived flaws.
• Using photos for self-evaluation: Taking numerous selfies or scrutinizing existing photos to analyze appearance.

Relationship to Mental Health Conditions:

Body checking is a significant symptom of:

• Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD): Individuals with BDD are preoccupied with perceived flaws in their appearance, which are often unnoticeable or appear slight to others. Body checking is a way to try and alleviate anxiety related to these perceived flaws.
• Eating Disorders: Anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder often involve body checking as a means of monitoring weight and shape, reinforcing negative self-image.
• Other anxiety disorders: Body checking can also be associated with other anxiety disorders as a way of attempting to control feelings of anxiety or uncertainty.

Impact on Mental Well-being:

Body checking is extremely detrimental to mental health. It perpetuates a negative self-image, intensifies anxiety and depression, and interferes with daily functioning. The constant self-criticism and preoccupation with appearance can significantly impact self-esteem, relationships, and overall quality of life.

If you or someone you know is struggling with body checking, seeking professional help is crucial. Therapists can provide support, develop coping mechanisms, and help address underlying mental health conditions contributing to the behavior. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is often effective in treating body checking and related disorders.