Body Image: Why We All Deserve to Feel Good in Our Skin
If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and thought, “ugh,” you’re not alone. Studies indicate that 69-84% of women experience body dissatisfaction, often desiring a lower weight than their current one. Thanks to social media, diet culture, and impossible beauty standards, negative body image is more common than ever.
But here’s the truth—your body is not the problem. The problem is the world around us constantly telling us we need to change.
What Exactly Is Body Image?
Body image isn’t just about how we see ourselves physically—it’s also about how we think and feel about our bodies. Psychologists break it down into four parts:
Perceptual body image – The way you see yourself, which may not match reality.
Affective body image – How you feel about your body (positive, negative, or neutral).
Cognitive body image – The thoughts and beliefs you have about your body.
Behavioral body image – The things you do because of your body image (avoiding mirrors, over-exercising, restricting food).
Research shows that poor body image is a risk factor for developing eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem.
How Social Media and Culture Shape Our Views
The average person spends 143 minutes per day on social media, and research shows that exposure to unrealistic body ideals can lead to increased dissatisfaction, low self-esteem, and even disordered eating behaviors. A study found that American high school students using social media for more than two hours daily were 1.6 times more likely to experience body image issues than those with less exposure.
A scoping review analyzing evidence from 50 studies across 17 countries found that social media usage leads to body image concerns and disordered eating behaviors.
The Mental Health Foundation's report highlights that the use of image-editing apps can contribute to body dissatisfaction and reduced self-esteem.
Research indicates that greater body dissatisfaction is linked to increased symptoms of mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression.
It’s no wonder we feel like we’re constantly falling short.
How to Start Healing Your Relationship with Your Body
Curate your feed – Follow people who promote body positivity and self-acceptance.
Challenge unrealistic standards – Call out diet culture and remind yourself that most online images are altered.
Practice self-compassion – Speak to yourself like you would a best friend.
Seek professional support – If negative body image is affecting your mental health, therapy can help.
Your body is not a problem to be solved. If you’re struggling, we’re here to help. Our practice offers compassionate support to help you navigate body acceptance and self-worth.
