UNDERSTANDING BODY IMAGE

What is body image?

Your body image is…

• How you see yourself in the mirror or how you picture yourself in your mind.
• What you believe about your own appearance (including your memories, assumptions and generalisations)
• How you feel about your body (height, shape and weight)
• How you sense and control your body as you move i.e. how you feel IN your body, not just ABOUT your body

We internalise messages from a young age and this can lead to positive and negative body image. Having a healthy body image is an important part of mental wellbeing and prevention of eating disorders. People who have negative body image are more likely to suffer from feelings of depression, isolation and low self-esteem as well as obsession with weight loss.

What is a Negative Body Image?

• A falsified perception of your shape- you perceive parts of your body unlike what they really are
• You believe that only other people are attractive and that your body shape or size is a sign of personal failure
• You feel ashamed, self-conscious and anxious about your body
• You feel awkward and uncomfortable in your body

What is a Positive Negative Image?

• A clear, true perception of your shape- seeing parts of your body as they truly are
• You celebrate and appreciate your natural body shape and understand that physical appearance do not reflect your value and character as a person
• You feel proud and accepting of your unique body and refuse to spend an absurd amount of time worrying about food, calories and weight
• You feel comfortable and confident in your body

What you can do to help yourself?

1. Take a body image self test
2. Message our specialists for free enquiries
3. Make an appointment with our specialists
4. Visit https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/ for more information

SOURCE:

https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/

https://www.sgh.com.sg/

IMPORTANT:

The opinions expressed in Healthy Mind Online “Specialist Opinion” are solely those of the named Specialist, who may or may not have medical or scientific training. Some information have been abridged from the mentioned sources. Nothing in the content should be considered, or used as a substitute for medical advice, psychiatric advice, diagnosis or treatment. This site and its services do not constitute the practice of any medical, psychiatric nursing or other professional health care advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should always talk to your health care provider for diagnosis and treatment, including your specific medical needs. We advise users to always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions regarding personal health, medical or psychiatric conditions.