The Ozempic personality or how extreme thinness destroys pleasure: I was stripped of my usual optimism

A Spanish model who once described herself as "thin enough to see my ribs" has spoken publicly about how extreme weight loss through the medication Ozempic has stripped her of joy. The woman, known in the industry under a pseudonym, told a Spanish media outlet that the drug had taken away her usual optimism. She described feeling disconnected from life’s pleasures, saying she could no longer enjoy simple things like eating or socializing. The phenomenon of extreme thinness linked to Ozempic has sparked debate among health professionals and cultural commentators. The drug, originally approved for treating type 2 diabetes, works by suppressing appetite and reducing calorie absorption. Its off-label use for weight loss has become widespread, particularly among women seeking rapid results. In recent months, reports have emerged of users experiencing emotional distress, including depression and anxiety, as they struggle with the psychological impact of severe weight loss. In Berlin during the spring fashion week, a brand named Namilia launched a controversial t-shirt featuring the slogan "I love Ozempic." The design drew both admiration and criticism, with some viewing it as a reflection of current beauty standards, while others called it exploitative. This trend mirrors past efforts by brands to commercialize the aesthetic of extreme thinness, such as the 2009 campaign led by supermodel Kate Moss, whose famous quote, "Nothing feels better than being thin", became a rallying cry for many. At the time, Moss used the phrase as motivation, keeping it written above her fridge alongside her friend, hairdresser James Brown. Ozempic's popularity has been fueled by its effectiveness and accessibility. Unlike traditional dieting methods, which often fail due to unsustainable habits, the medication offers a more direct approach to weight management. However, this comes with side effects that extend beyond physical health. Users have reported feelings of isolation, difficulty concentrating, and a diminished ability to experience pleasure. Some describe a condition they call "Ozempic personality," characterized by a persistent lack of enthusiasm and emotional flatness. Health experts warn that while the drug can aid in managing chronic conditions, its use for weight loss requires careful monitoring. Dr. Elena Ruiz, a specialist in metabolic disorders, noted that patients using Ozempic for non-medical purposes often neglect their mental well-being. "Many don’t consider the emotional toll of extreme weight loss," she said. "It’s not just about losing weight, it’s about how that loss affects one’s quality of life." The growing interest in Ozempic has also raised ethical concerns. Some critics argue that the drug’s availability and marketing contribute to unrealistic body ideals, especially among young women. Social media platforms have seen an increase in posts sharing before-and-after photos of individuals using the medication, often accompanied by messages of triumph or despair. These images, while sometimes genuine, can also be misleading, as they rarely capture the full picture of the user’s experience. As the conversation around Ozempic continues, healthcare providers are urging greater awareness of its potential psychological impacts. Meanwhile, the fashion world remains entangled in the cycle of promoting extreme thinness, whether through slogans, clothing lines, or celebrity endorsements. For now, the focus remains on the tangible outcomes of the drug, and the lives it alters.