The adverse effects of poor body image

Body image is the way that we see ourselves. It can be affected by our own perceptions and the way that other people see us. Though it’s often overlooked, body image is a critical aspect of mental health.

Research from mentlahealth.org found that 30% of adults felt so stressed by body image and appearance that they felt overwhelmed and unable to cope.  This means that it’s essential for us to start paying more attention to how we think about our bodies and how we talk about them.

The way we feel about our bodies can profoundly impact our mental health. For example, people unhappy with their appearance are more likely to suffer from low self-esteem, leading to depression and anxiety. Research has shown that people with negative body image are more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviours like excessive dieting and binge eating.

It’s not just adults who are affected by body image issues. Children and adolescents can also be vulnerable to the adverse effects of poor body image. One study found that nearly half of all girls between six and eight were already dissatisfied with their bodies. This is alarming, and it underscores the importance of teaching children to have a healthy body image from a young age.

So what can we do to improve our body image?

Here are a few tips:

1. Be mindful of the way you talk about your body. Don’t be critical of yourself, and don’t compare yourself to others.

2. Avoid excesses, whether food, exercise, or anything else.

3. Fill your life with activities that make you feel good, and focus on the things that are important to you.

4. Seek professional help if you’re struggling with negative body image or an eating disorder.

5. Be patient. It takes time to change how you think about your body, but it’s possible.

Ultimately, it’s up to us to develop a healthy body image. But by working together, we can create a society that celebrates all types of bodies and encourages people to be kind to themselves and each other.