Body image includes both the perception of and attitude toward one’s body. Negative body image can lead to emotional issues such as reduced self-esteem. It can also cause mental health issues such as body dysmorphia.

Therapy is often an effective way to address body image concerns. In therapy, a person may explore all the factors that contributed to their current attitudes. An individual may not realize how much of their self-perception comes from negative comments by others. They may have experienced bullying from peers or family and blamed themselves for it. Therapy can help a person rebuild a self-image that isn’t tainted by mistreatment.

An important part of improving body image is practicing self-compassion. People often blame themselves for not matching cultural ideals. They believe if they spent more effort working out, applying lotions, buying better clothes, etc., that they would look how they “should.” But most people don’t have the money or time to perfect their looks in the same way that professional actors or models do. People do not have a moral or social obligation to look “perfect.” One’s appearance is not a measurement of work-ethic, creativity, or overall worth as a human being.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common form of treatment for body image issues. In CBT, a person can learn to recognize in the moment when they are being unfair to themselves. They can spot situations that prompt their self-criticism and learn to avoid or mitigate these triggers. A therapist can also teach them how to “fight back” against the negativity with mindfulness and positive self-talk.

(image courtesy of breakbingeeating.com)