According to the National Eating Disorder Assocation, body image is how you see yourself in the mirror or what you see when you take a mental picture of yourself. This encompasses:
Having a negative body image can mean having a distorted perception of your shape—perceiving body parts unlike how they really are. It can also mean you are convinced only other people are attractive and your body is a sign of personal failure. You also feel ashamed, self-conscious and anxious about your body. A negative self-image also can make a person feel uncomfortable and awkward in your body. These can be the extremes and any form of this can be a negative body image. Positive body image is having a clear, true perception of your shape and see your body parts as they really are. You feel proud, confident, and comfortable in your body. You also have an acceptance of your unique body and understand that physical appearance is not everything.
According to BodyImage3D, the founders of Fat Talk Free Week, fat talk is defined as:
“any statement that reinforces the thin-ideal standard of beauty and contributes to women and men’s dissatisfaction with their bodies. Examples include:
Having a positive body image doesn’t happen over night. It takes active, conscious work, but it is possible for everyone! Some tips to work towards having a more positive body image are:
If you would like to talk to someone about body image, there are resources available for you!
Student Health Center Dietitian
$20 per session, call 205-348-2778
Student Health Center Psychiatry Services
Make an appointment by calling 205-348-2778
The Counseling Center
Free consultation, $15 session, call 205-348-3863
