A negative body image involves being overly focused on comparing your size, shape, or appearance to unrealistic ideals. Holding yourself to a thin-ideal or an athletic-ideal may cause you to develop unhealthy self-talk, low self-esteem, or disordered eating patterns.
How to support someone with body image issues:
· Show support with meals.
· Show support outside of meals.
· Be patient and actively listen.
· Understand their boundaries.
· Ask what they need.
· Be encouraging and build them up.
· Encourage them to talk to someone.
· Don't force them to eat or exercise.
Practicing self love:
1. Practice positive self-talk. Understandably, we are our own biggest critic.
2. Be unafraid to be vulnerable.
3. Take yourself outside.
4. Be more mindful of how you treat your body.
5. Be patient with yourself.