Body image is:
- How you see yourself when you look in the mirror or when you picture yourself in your mind
- What you believe about your own appearance (including your memories, assumptions, and generalizations)
- How you feel about your body, including your height, shape, and weight
- How you sense and control your body as you move
- How you feel in your body, not just about your body
People with negative body image have a greater likelihood of developing an eating disorder and are more likely to suffer from feelings of depression, isolation, low self-esteem, and obsessions with weight loss.
We all may have our days when we feel awkward or uncomfortable in our bodies, but the key to developing positive body image is to recognize and respect our natural shape and learn to overpower those negative thoughts and feelings with positive, affirming, and accepting ones.
If you or someone you know struggles with negative body image or disordered eating, there is help. The Student Counseling Center is free for students, and offers confidential one-on-one counseling. Call today to make an appointment: 503-352-2191