Fear Of Gaining Weight: Obesophobia Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

Lifestyle
Updated: 1/29/2023

obesophobia, fear of gaining weight, obesophobia treatment
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Obesophobia, also known as lipophobia and pocrescophobia, is an overwhelming fear of gaining weight that can lead to a range of physical and psychological issues. People with this condition may go to extreme lengths to avoid gaining weight, such as skipping meals, engaging in excessive exercise, and taking drastic dietary measures. In this article, we will explore the symptoms, causes, and treatments of obesophobia.

antidepressants and weight gain


What is Obesophobia?

Obesophobia is an irrational fear of gaining weight that can cause people to become overly preoccupied with their body size and shape. This fear can lead to an obsession with food, exercise, and dieting, as well as other extreme behaviors related to weight control. People with obesophobia may go to great lengths to avoid gaining weight, such as severely restricting their food intake, engaging in excessive exercise, and taking diet pills, laxatives, or other medications.

fear of food eating hamburger


Symptoms of Obesophobia

People with obesophobia may experience a range of physical and psychological symptoms, including

  • Intense fear of gaining weight
  • Preoccupation with body size and shape Restrictive eating
  • Excessive exercise 
  • Use of laxatives, diet pills, or other medications 
  • Avoidance of social situations 
  • Low self-esteem 
  • Anxiety or panic attacks

Causes of Obesophobia

The exact cause of obesophobia is not known, but there are a number of factors that may contribute to it, including:

  • Genetics: People with a family history of anxiety disorders or eating disorders may be more likely to develop obesophobia.
  • Traumatic experiences: People who have experienced bullying or trauma related to body image may develop obesophobia as a result.
  • Media and cultural influences: Exposure to media and cultural messages that emphasize thinness or emphasize weight gain as a negative may increase the risk of developing obesophobia.

Treatments for Obesophobia

Treatment for obesophobia typically involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Psychotherapy can help people with obesophobia learn to manage their fears and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is often used to help people with obesophobia understand their triggers and develop healthier behaviors. Medication may also be prescribed to help manage symptoms of anxiety and depression.


Conclusion

Obesophobia is an irrational fear of gaining weight that can lead to a range of physical and psychological issues. People with this condition may go to extreme lengths to avoid gaining weight, such as skipping meals, engaging in excessive exercise, and taking drastic dietary measures. Treatment for obesophobia typically involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Through therapy, people with obesophobia can learn to manage their fears and develop healthier coping mechanisms.