Are you struggling with negative body image issues? If so, you’re not alone. Body image issues are a very common problem that can lead to depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. At Purple Sky Counseling in Murray, UT, we understand that the way you perceive your body can have a tremendous impact on your quality of life. We’re committed to helping you create a positive outlook and learn how to overcome negative self-perception.

What is Body Image?

Body image is the way you view yourself in relation to your physical appearance. It’s the mental image you have of your body as well as how you feel about it. Your body image is influenced by your family, friends, culture, and media. It can also be affected by your own thoughts, perceptions, and experiences.

When you have a healthy body image, you accept yourself and your body as it is. You don’t compare yourself to others or feel ashamed of your appearance. You can recognize and appreciate your unique strengths and qualities. On the other hand, when you have an unhealthy body image, you may feel dissatisfied with your body and compare yourself to others. You may also feel self-conscious and avoid social situations.

Common Body Image Issues

Body image issues can affect anyone, regardless of gender, age, or body type. Some of the most common body image issues include:

• Eating disorders: Eating disorders are serious mental illnesses that involve an unhealthy relationship with food. People who have eating disorders often have a distorted view of their body and feel intense guilt or shame about their weight or size.

• Body dysmorphic disorder: This is a mental health disorder that causes a person to obsess over their physical appearance. People with this disorder often have a distorted view of their body and may go to extreme lengths to change their appearance.

• Low self-esteem: Low self-esteem is the belief that you are not good enough or are inferior to others. People with low self-esteem may feel ashamed or embarrassed about their body and may be hesitant to engage in activities or relationships.

• Unrealistic beauty standards: Unrealistic beauty standards are set by society and the media, which can make it difficult for people to accept their own bodies. These standards often emphasize the importance of being thin, having perfect skin, and having a certain body type.

How to Overcome Negative Self-Perception

If you’re struggling with body image issues, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. There are many things you can do to help overcome negative self-perception and create a more positive outlook. Here are a few tips:

• Acknowledge and accept your body: It’s important to be kind to yourself and recognize that your body is unique and beautiful. Remind yourself that you are more than just your physical appearance.

• Surround yourself with positive people: Spend time with people who make you feel good and accept you just the way you are.

• Focus on your strengths: Instead of focusing on your flaws, focus on your strengths and things that you like about yourself.

• Focus on health, not size: It’s important to focus on overall health rather than striving for a certain body size or weight.

• Seek professional help: If you’re struggling with body image issues, it’s important to seek help from a mental health professional. At Purple Sky Counseling in Murray, UT, we specialize in helping people overcome negative self-perception and build a more positive body image.

No matter what body image issues you’re struggling with, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. At Purple Sky Counseling in Murray, UT, we understand how difficult it can be to overcome negative body image issues and we’re here to help. We offer individual and group counseling to help you create a positive outlook and learn how to accept and appreciate your body. We’re passionate about helping you create a healthier and more positive relationship with your body.