Body Image and Body Esteem
Body image is a complex psychological phenomenon that involves our perception, imagination, emotion and physical sensations related to our bodies. It has deep psychological and emotional roots that are vulnerable to change, depending on our mood and bodily experiences.
In short, body image is the way we see our bodies, in the mirror and in our minds, regardless of reality.
"Body image is much more then the way one judges their physical attributes. It is the mental picture a person has of his/her body as well as their thoughts, feelings, judgments, sensations, awareness and behavior. It is our mental picture of ourselves; it is what allows us to become ourselves.” (Weekly Reader Corp. Current Health 2, 1998)
Body esteem, meanwhile, is the extent to which body image affects self-esteem.
“Body esteem is directly associated with self-esteem. Research estimates that as much as _ of our self-esteem is driven by how we feel about our bodies. It is not uncommon for people who think poorly about their bodies to have great difficulty in other areas of their lives, including sexuality, careers and relationships." (Weekly Reader Corp. Current Health 2, 1998)
Left untreated, a negative body image will leave you significantly more vulnerable to depression, anxiety, substance abuse and eating disorders. Therapy can help you explore the underlying thoughts and feelings that drive your negative body image. Through hard work and determination you can improve your self-esteem and confidence.
