Body image can be described as "the mental representation of our bodies that we hold in our minds" i.e. the way we see ourselves. Under the best circumstances, we would see the true image of our bodies. However, this is rarely the case. The view we have of our appearance can be drastically influenced by cognitive distortions, social fears, cultural pressure and a range of eating and body dysmorphic disorders. Much of the research surrounding body image has focused on adolescents and women. However, negative body image can manifest at any age in all sexes. In women, perceptions of body norms and ideal size tend to be associated to 'thin'. Whereas in men, there is a trend to idolise a more muscular norm. In this article, I want to address the topic of body image further by highlighting some of the main signs of body image disorders and giving resources to find out more or receive support.
There are two main components of body image; the way we see our body for example, shape, and the way we feel about this visual image. These two components are still heavily debated among researchers. Some believe that a disparity between an individual's true, objective body and an individual's more personal perception of this image is the root of body image disorders. However, other researchers have rejected this theory because they have found people's abilities to identify their own body shape and size to be very poor. Thus, body dissatisfaction is an incredibly complex area and other studies have shown it to be influenced by a number of factors include mood, perceptions of cultural norms, time of day or media exposure. Taken together, this research indicates that there is no single underlying cause to body dissatisfaction and many triggers or events can influence it.
There are two prevalent manifestations of negative body image: Body Dysmorphic Disorder (or dysmorphophobia) and anorexia nervosa. Body Dysmorphic Disorder is a psychiatric disorder causing patients to see themselves as ugly, unattractive or deformed. In reality, patients have none of these traits and yet, become fixated on their appearance and fear this image. It can cause severe unhappiness, stress and difficulty in day-to-day life; preventing an individual from going to social events, work or carrying out errands. Body Dysmorphia is a serious disorder and can lead to self-harm and suicidal thoughts. It can be a debilitating disease but treatment in the form of cognitive-behavioural therapy or medication exist and can help patients overcome the disorder. If you feel as though you are suffering from this or any other type of mental health problem, seek support from friends and family and contact your doctor who can refer you to professional support. The BDD Foundation is also a fantastic source to find out more about body dysmorphia and where to get help : https://bddfoundation.org/
Anorexia Nervosa, like Body Dysmorphia can be a consequence and cause of negative body image. Many patients suffering from anorexia nervosa see themselves as overweight and take part in deliberate weight loss through restrictive dieting and often vigorous exercise. These behaviours can also stem from genetic factors, experiences of trauma and social influences. It can lead to amenorrhoea (loss of menstrual cycle), early osteoporosis and heart problems. Early intervention, as for many other diseases and disorders, is key and can include hospital treatment and psychotherapy. Again, this is a very serious disorder but, with time and treatment can be overcome! Seek support and contact your doctor who can refer you to a specialist. BEAT is the UK charity organisation for eating disorders and provides more information and sources for support on anorexia and other eating disorders: https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/ Additional resources can also be found on the NEDA website: https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/
Be it anorexia, body dysmorphia or any other eating or psychological disorder, you are never alone.
In this final paragraph I would like to address the role of social media and advertising on body image. In today's society, social media plays a huge role in our views and perceptions. In regards to body image many studies have shown social media to negatively influence our perceptions of the self. One study, found that when women were asked to look at a social media profile of an attractive female peer before completing a measurement of body image, they experienced increased negative body image in comparison to when they were asked to view a family member's profile. Another study explored three factors of: "awareness of a thin ideal, internalisation of a thin ideal, and perceived pressures to be thin" in relation to negative body image. This study found that all three factors influenced body image and internalisation of ideals. However, the issue extends further than the notion of 'thin'. Other studies have seen this same increase in body dissatisfaction and negative self-esteem after individuals were asked to interact with social ideals of 'thin' 'athletic' and 'curvy'. This indicates it is not only one type of comparison or ideal that can cause us to react negatively to ourselves. Therefore, as I speak about in my article on media images, it is important for us to realise the reality behind what we see online. If we find ourselves constantly upset and dissatisfied after viewing a certain profile or article it may be time to change the platforms we are engaging with. Sadness is not part of a contract with social media.
Remember: never be afraid to reach out, your mental health is vital so take care.
Let me know if you would like further resources or information and I hope you find yourself more informed from the article.
Keep smiling,
Natasha x
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