What do you think you look like? Body image is the mental representation an individual creates of themselves, but it may or may not bear any relation to how one actually appears. Body image is subject to all kinds of distortions from the attitudes of one's parents, other early experiences, internal elements like emotions or moods, and other factors. The severe form of poor body image is body dysmo
What Is Body Image? (Plain Language Explanation)
Body Image refers to a pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that many people experience. While it can be challenging, it's also well-understood and treatable.
Key Terms to Know About Body Image
- Symptoms: The specific ways body image shows up for you
- Triggers: Situations or thoughts that activate or worsen body image
- Evidence-based: Treatments backed by scientific research
- Comorbidity: When body image occurs alongside other conditions
3 Things Most People Don't Know About Body Image
- Body Image is far more common than most people realize
- Body Image is not caused by weakness — it has identifiable biological and psychological causes
- Most people with body image see significant improvement with the right support
Your Next Steps
Learning about body image is just the beginning. If you think you're experiencing body image, speaking with a mental health professional is the most valuable next step.