For example, you might be in a dressing room trying on clothes when you think, “I’m too fat to fit into any of these things. I shouldn’t even be trying on clothes. " How does this make you feel? Hurt? Angry? Sad? You may see someone jogging and think, “There’s no way I could be as fit as that person. " This kind of thinking may make you feel depressed or annoyed. It’s natural to have negative feelings and thoughts, so don’t be upset with yourself. [2] X Expert Source Julia Lyubchenko, MS, MAAdult Counselor & Certified Hypnotherapist Expert Interview. 29 April 2020.
“This outfit doesn’t make me feel great, but I have other clothes that help me feel confident. " “Just because these clothes don’t fit doesn’t mean I should totally give up. I just need to try on different things. " “I may not like how my arm muscles sag, but these arms let me pick up my kids or wrap someone in a hug. "
For example, you might write that you use your body to swim, to hug people you love, or to get through the challenges that you face every day.
Don’t feel ashamed or embarrassed to shop for clothes in a size that truly fits you. You’ll probably find that they offer more support and are better designed to fit your body. If there are things you don’t like, that’s okay! Think about how you can dress in a flattering way or play up a feature you do like. [8] X Expert Source Julia Lyubchenko, MS, MAAdult Counselor & Certified Hypnotherapist Expert Interview. 29 April 2020.
Nurturing your body is a way of nurturing your mental health so make time to look after your needs. If you’re struggling with self-control when it comes to something like overeating, consider getting a therapist. [10] X Expert Source Julia Lyubchenko, MS, MAAdult Counselor & Certified Hypnotherapist Expert Interview. 29 April 2020.
Don’t forget to add these activities to your body-positive list!
Think of people you admire or famously wonderful people throughout history. Do you respect them because of their appearance or because of the amazing, kind, or thoughtful things they’ve done?
For example, you might start the discussion by saying, “I really like you and I’m happy with how our relationship is going, but I get really uncomfortable and anxious when you see me without my shirt on. " Talking about things that upset you can often help you process the way you feel so that you feel more secure. [15] X Expert Source Julia Lyubchenko, MS, MAAdult Counselor & Certified Hypnotherapist Expert Interview. 29 April 2020.
You don’t have to have a confrontation with friends or family about the issue unless you want to talk with them about it. If you want to talk, you could say, “I don’t really want to come to your party. You have a tendency to make me feel bad about how I look and I really don’t need that negativity. "
If you’re having trouble cutting back on your online time, use an app that tracks the amount of time you spend on certain sites.
Shift your focus from your size and shape to your health and well-being.
If you’re experiencing anxiety about how you look and it’s affecting your ability to function, your doctor might prescribe anti-anxiety medication. Need to talk to someone right away? Contact your country’s national eating disorder association. In the U. S. , you can call or text 1-800-931-2237. [22] X Trustworthy Source National Eating Disorders Association Nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals and communities affected by eating disorders Go to source
