Chapter 3
The role of body image and physical well-being in intimacy and relationships
This chapter explores how body image and physical well-being can shape confidence, self perception, intimacy, and social connection in people living with schizophrenia. It also considers how physical health and personal priorities can support a stronger sense of self and fuller participation in everyday life.
Mini-Glossary
Body image: The way a person perceives, thinks about, and emotionally experiences their own physical appearance.
Metabolic health: A broad description of factors such as blood glucose, blood lipids, blood pressure, body weight, and energy regulation that influence physical health.
Metabolic syndrome: A group of medical conditions, including increased waist circumference, elevated blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, and impaired glucose regulation, that together increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Cardiometabolic risk: The combined risk of heart and metabolic conditions is influenced by factors such as weight, blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
Insulin resistance: A condition in which the body’s cells respond less effectively to insulin, which can contribute to higher blood glucose levels.
Comorbidity: The presence of one or more physical health conditions occurring alongside schizophrenia, such as diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease.
Social cognition: The ability to understand and interpret other people’s emotions, intentions, and social cues during interactions.
Emotional reciprocity: The natural exchange of emotional signals between people supporting mutual understanding and connection in relationships.
Social anhedonia: A reduced capacity to experience pleasure from social interaction, which may affect
motivation to engage in relationships.
Welcome to podcast #3
The role of body image and physical well-being in intimacy and relationships
with Elena Maurer, Health Journalist, and
Dr. Lukas Stein, Psychiatrist and Researcher
Elena:
In the previous chapters, we discussed relationships and emotional closeness. Today, we explore another dimension that can influence intimacy: how people experience their own bodies and physical well-being.
Many caregivers notice changes such as reduced confidence, withdrawal from social activities, or discomfort with appearance.
Dr. Stein, how important are these factors?
Dr. Stein:
They are very important. Physical well-being and body image are closely connected to how people perceive themselves as partners.
Research shows that individuals living with schizophrenia often experience metabolic health challenges and weight changes, which can influence confidence, social participation, and relationship dynamics.
Metabolic syndrome and obesity are consistently reported to be more prevalent among people with schizophrenia than in the general population.
These changes are closely connected to how individuals perceive themselves in social and romantic contexts.
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