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Ariana Grande has once again sparked alarm after appearing extremely thin and frail during recent public appearances.
Observers have pointed to her sunken cheeks, visible bones, and fragile frame, leading many to fear she may be suffering from a dangerous eating- or body-image disorder.
Some fans worry that her increasingly skeletal appearance may even be affecting her voice; during an October 2025 segment on Dancing With the Stars she sounded "strained and raspy," a departure from her usual four-octave range.
While no official diagnosis has been confirmed, health professionals consulted by media outlets suggested the possibility that Grande may be dealing with Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD).
Body dysmorphic disorder is a mental health condition characterized by a persistent, overwhelming preoccupation with perceived flaws in one's appearance, flaws that are often minor or entirely imagined.
This preoccupation can dominate daily life: individuals may repeatedly check mirrors, try to hide or "fix" the perceived flaw, or avoid social situations altogether.
Over time, the anxiety and distress caused by these obsessive thoughts can lead to serious consequences, including depression, social withdrawal, self-harm or suicidal thoughts, and even disordered eating or other compulsive behaviours.
In the case of extreme weight loss, as some sources estimate for Grande, the risks extend well beyond mental health.
Medical experts warn that prolonged calorie deficiency can lead to loss of fat, muscle, and even bone mass. If the situation worsens, vital organs may suffer, and in severe cases the heart muscle can become dangerously weakened, with potentially life-threatening consequences.
Numerous factors can contribute to developing BDD: genetic predisposition, childhood experiences such as bullying or neglect, personality traits like perfectionism, or societal pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards.
Some mental-health specialists recommend cognitive-behavioral therapy and, in certain cases, medication as effective treatments.
