Poor Body Image
In a world saturated with images of “ideal” bodies and unrealistic beauty standards, it’s no surprise that many individuals struggle with body image. In fact, research shows that up to 80% of women and 50% of men experience body image concerns at some point in their lives. Poor body image is a deeply personal and often painful experience. It affects how a person perceives their own body, how they feel about their appearance, and how they believe others view them.
Understanding Poor Body Image
So, what does it actually mean to have “poor” body image? It’s typically defined as a persistent dissatisfaction with one’s appearance, a distorted perception of body size or shape, and/or feelings of shame, embarrassment, or discomfort in one’s own skin. In everyday life, poor body image can show up in many different ways.
For example, it might look like avoiding mirrors or refusing to take photos. This avoidance can be a protective strategy—an effort to shield yourself from perceived flaws. Others may try to hide certain body parts with specific clothing choices. Have you ever worn jeans in the middle of a sweltering Chicago summer just to avoid showing your legs? That could be a sign that your body image needs attention.
On the flip side, poor body image can also show up as constant scrutiny. You might find yourself analyzing how you look in every mirror or photo. This hyper-fixation fuels an inner critic, often pointing out all the things you "should" change about your body.
Body image struggles also influence how we compare ourselves to others. Do you ever find yourself sizing up your body next to celebrities, influencers, or even friends and family? This kind of comparison can offer a fleeting sense of control, but over time, it tends to increase self-criticism and further damage body image.
Lastly, poor body image can lead to unhealthy behaviors in the pursuit of looking “better.” This may include restrictive dieting, rigid exercise routines, or considering medications like GLP-1s or cosmetic procedures to “fix” perceived flaws. Unfortunately, these efforts often result in increased anxiety, sadness, and frustration about your appearance.
Causes of Poor Body Image
Poor body image doesn’t develop in a vacuum. Many factors can shape the way we see and feel about our bodies. Here are some common influences:
Cultural influences: Different cultures hold varying ideals around body type, diet, and exercise, all of which can impact body image.
Societal messages: Media representations often promote specific body types as acceptable or attractive, reinforcing harmful norms.
Social media exposure: Platforms like Instagram and TikTok offer filters that erase natural features—like acne, wrinkles, or stretch marks—promoting unrealistic standards of beauty.
Childhood experiences: Growing up in an environment where appearance was heavily emphasized can foster early body shame.
Family and peer influences: Hearing friends or family criticize their own or others’ bodies, or constantly talk about dieting, can send the message that only certain bodies are acceptable.
Mental health conditions: Pre-existing conditions like anxiety or depression can amplify body image struggles and make it more difficult to develop a healthy sense of self.
How Poor Body Image Impacts Mental Health
Poor body image can take a significant toll on both physical and mental well-being. If our thoughts shape our feelings and behaviors, then a constant stream of self-critical thoughts about your body is bound to impact your emotional state and day-to-day life.
Disordered eating, depression, and social anxiety are three common outcomes associated with body image issues. Over time, negative body thoughts can make it feel safer to stay home, hide behind the camera instead of being in the photo, or avoid physical intimacy. These patterns of isolation and withdrawal often lead to low mood and a sense of hopelessness.
You might turn to dieting, excessive exercise, or even purging as a way to feel in control of your body. While healthy eating and movement are generally beneficial, taken to an extreme, they can lead to serious physical and mental health risks.
Working on Body Image in Therapy
Therapy can be a powerful space for healing body image concerns, building self-acceptance, and improving overall well-being. At Health in Tandem, we use evidence-based approaches like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and parts work to help you create a healthier relationship with your body.
If you’re ready to begin this journey, reach out through our Book an Appointment page or email us at intake@healthintandem.com to get started.