'Stressorexia' the new breed of stressed out gym junkies

Asian News International
London, December 6

A stress full life along with low self esteem is breeding a new breed called the "stressorexics", who vigorously try to relieve the strain of high-pressure careers with regular visits to the running machines and weights rooms at the local gym.

According to the Independent, growing numbers of British adults are threatening their health with a dangerous combination of weight-watching and compulsive exercise.

The Eating Disorders Association (EDA) blames increasingly stressful lives and the growing emphasis on body image for this condition, which can push gym fanatics to the edge of serious eating disorders such as anorexia.

"Going to the gym is always seen as a good thing. People don't think there are negative sides to this. There is no criticism if you go to the gym four or five times a week. The message about constant dieting being unhealthy has been listened to, while 'exercising' is still seen as healthy, in all circumstances," Susan Ringwood, the chief executive of the Eating Disorders Association, was quoted as saying.

"Stressorexia is a product of our perfectionist society. It is a way that some young women cope with stress in their lives. It's not anorexia, it's a way of coping with stress that is eating-disorder-related," editor of Cosmopolitan magazine Sam Baker, added.