Overcoming Body Dysmorphia and Nurturing Self-Esteem

By Rashie

Overcoming Body Dysmorphia and Nurturing Self-Esteem

Nowadays, there is tremendous societal pressure to conform to specific beauty standards, and this can be extremely overwhelming for many people. As a result, a significant number of individuals struggle with body dysmorphia, a mental health condition characterized by perceiving one's appearance in a distorted way. 

Body dysmorphia has a profound impact on self-esteem, often resulting in feelings of inadequacy, self-consciousness, and even depression.  

How does Body Dysmorphia affect self-esteem? 

Body dysmorphia with respect to self esteem can result in the following issues:

• Body dysmorphia has a profound influence on an individual's self-esteem, causing a continuous and negative perception of oneself and generating emotions such as shame and a sense of worthlessness.
• People affected by body dysmorphia frequently find themselves trapped in an unrelenting cycle of self-criticism, constantly comparing their appearance to unrealistic standards, and seeking validation from others. 
• This cycle perpetuates and strengthens negative beliefs about their own appearance, further deteriorating their self-esteem and perpetuating the distressing symptoms associated with body dysmorphia.

 How can you increase your self-esteem? 

• Challenge negative self-talk: Become aware of the negative thoughts and beliefs you have about your appearance. When you catch yourself engaging in negative self-talk, challenge those thoughts by asking yourself if they are based on facts or distorted perceptions.
• Focus on your strengths: Shift your focus from your perceived flaws to your strengths, talents, and achievements. Make a list of your positive qualities, skills, and accomplishments. Celebrate and appreciate what makes you unique and valuable as an individual.
• Practice self-care: Take care of your physical and mental well-being. Engage in activities that make you feel good about yourself, such as exercising, practicing mindfulness or meditation, pursuing hobbies you enjoy, and spending time with supportive people.
• Surround yourself with positive influences: Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you. Seek out friends and loved ones who appreciate you for who you are and encourage your self-esteem. Minimize interactions with individuals who bring you down or perpetuate negative body image ideals.
• Limit exposure to triggering content: Be mindful of the media and social media content you consume. Unfollow or mute accounts that trigger negative feelings or comparisons. Instead, follow accounts that promote body positivity, self-acceptance, and diversity.
• Set realistic goals: Set achievable goals that are not solely based on appearance. Focus on personal growth, education, a career, or hobbies that bring you fulfillment and a sense of accomplishment. Accomplishing these goals can help boost your self-esteem.

Overcoming body dysmorphia and cultivating self-esteem is an ongoing journey that requires patience, self-reflection, and support. By seeking professional help, challenging negative thoughts, building a supportive network, prioritizing self-care, and focusing and reminding yourself that every individual is unique, the struggle with self-esteem and body dysmorphia might seem to be a way to end. In the end, inner beauty lies within oneself. 

To know more about Cultivating Mindfulness to Reduce Body Dysmorphia read here

To know more about Body Dysmorphia as someone with PCOS read here