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Learning To Love Your Physical Appearance


Low-self worth associated with one’s appearance is a common struggle for both men and women. While struggling to love the way you look is most common in the teen years, it can occur at any age. As people grow older, their bodies change and they may not look the way they used to anymore. This can be very hard to come to terms with and can lead to problems like depression.

Because we are in the middle of summer right now, people are typically going to be wearing less clothing. If you’re feeling uncomfortable showing more skin or putting on a bathing suit this summer, you’re not alone. The feeling of disliking your physical appearance is very common but you can learn to love the way you look.

Surround Yourself With Supportive People

At one point or another in life, we’ve all been around someone who’s hyper-critical. They may make unhelpful comments or offer unsolicited advice on how to lose weight, dress better, or cover something up with makeup. Even if these comments are well-intended, even one of them can overshadow any good things said about your appearance.

These people can be very detrimental to your mental health and should be avoided if possible. If you’re in a situation where this individual is a family member or someone you can’t entirely avoid, set clear boundaries with them and explain that you don’t welcome comments regarding your physical appearance. Try to surround yourself with positive people, who support and uplift you instead of tearing you down.

Focus on the Aspects of Your Appearance You Do Like

Even if you’re not happy with your physical appearance as a whole, there are likely at least a couple of aspects of yourself that you do like. Maybe you like the natural shape of your eyebrows or appreciate your straight teeth. When you look in the mirror every day, try to focus on these features instead of dwelling on the things you don’t like.

When you make this a regular practice, it can become easier to overlook the aspects you don’t like. You may also consider different ways to accentuate these features you’re proud of, whether it be through how you do your makeup or the clothes you wear.

Avoid Comparing Yourself to Others

Comparison is an easy yet detrimental habit to fall into. Because of the prevalence of social media, comparison can be hard to avoid. When you’re scrolling through Facebook or Instagram, it’s important to remember that a lot of what you’re seeing is not real. There are plenty of filters and editing tools out there that people can use to alter their appearance. Additionally, lighting and different angles can make a huge difference.

Remember also that people aren’t likely to post unflattering pictures of themselves online so what you’re seeing is only a highlight reel while you get all the raw, behind-the-scenes footage of your own life. If you often feel worse about yourself after using social media, consider limiting your social media use or changing what you’re following online.

Take Care of Yourself Physically

You may be surprised how much doing little things daily to take care of your physical health can have an impact on your outward appearance. For example, making sure you drink plenty of water can help improve your skin’s texture and reduce bloating. Getting enough sleep every night can help prevent wrinkles, under-eye bags, and other signs of aging. Eating well-rounded, healthy meals, avoiding too much sugar, and doing workouts you enjoy can help you stay toned, strong, and at a healthy weight.

Consider What Kind of Clothes You’re Wearing

When you feel uncomfortable with your physical appearance, you are more likely to try to cover your body up with baggy clothing. You may feel unmotivated to try to put effort into how you present yourself. If this is your situation, take the time to go shopping for clothes that not only fit your body type but that you enjoy and feel confident in. Look for colors and patterns that make you feel good about yourself.

By having flattering clothing items to choose from in the morning, you’re more likely to look forward to getting dressed and feel more confident in your own skin.

Seek Help if You Need It

If you struggle with self-worth associated with your appearance and it’s beginning to take a major toll on your mental health, consider reaching out to a therapist. They can help you work through your emotions and come up with healthy coping techniques.

Struggling to love your physical appearance is a common problem and it can happen to anyone at any age. This struggle can lead to low self-worth and mental health problems like depression. Luckily, there are ways to overcome it. Start by surrounding yourself with positive people that support you and lift you up. It can also help to focus on the aspects of your appearance you do like instead of those you don’t, avoid comparing yourself to others, take care of your physical health, and dress in a way that makes you feel good. If your mental health is beginning to suffer due to your feelings regarding your appearance, seek professional help from a therapist who can help you work through your emotions. At SokyaHealth we want to help you achieve better mental health. Call 800-930-0803 today to learn more about the different types of services that we provide.

More than 50% of Americans struggle with mental health.

Headlight is now collaborating with health plans and companies to make therapy more accessible and affordable. Speak to a Care Coordinator today.