Are you constantly comparing your body to other people’s? Do you wish you had a larger chest, more toned arms, or a smaller waist? These are all symptoms of body envy, something that many Americans go through in their lives. Whether you’ve gone through this for a while or you’ve recently developed insecurities, we’re here to help you boost your self-esteem. Here are some tips to overcome body envy, courtesy of Heron Ridge Associates.

Body Trends Change All the Time

Society is constantly changing its mind about what looks good and what doesn’t. Slim builds, thick builds, curvy builds, muscular builds – these have all been considered beautiful or not beautiful at some point in time. You cannot get wrapped up in the current trend. Like a fad diet, it will pass. Instead, focus on embracing your body for how it is, regardless of where it fits with society.

You are not a trend. You’re timeless.

Remember: You Have Someone Else’s Ideal Body

You may think your body is far from perfect, but there are plenty of people who would love to look just like you! That person that you idolize for being a certain shape or stature – he or she probably has a dozen insecurities. We are all critical of ourselves in some way, but we are quick to appreciate the uniqueness in others. It’s time you realized just how beautiful your uniqueness is.

Find Clothes That Flatter You Now

Are you avoiding new clothes until you reach a certain weight or build? This mindset is damaging to your self-esteem. You don’t have to punish yourself in ill-fitting clothes until you reach a specific size. This only fuels your insecurities and adds to your depression. Instead, take time to find clothes that fit your body jut how it is right now. Play with different prints and silhouettes until you figure out what flatters you.

Don’t focus on the sizes too hard when you go into the dressing room. If you have to go a size up to better fit your body, go for it! No one will know about that number but you. Every store and every brand has a different way of sizing, and there are variations within the same line. Don’t be discouraged by a larger or smaller number on the tag. Just find clothes that you feel great in.

Find the True Source of Low Self-Esteem

There is an underlying reason for your body envy, one you may not even realize is there. It could be depression, anxiety, past trauma, addiction, or any number of other issues. For instance, you may have had a partner in the past who insulted your size or shape. This consistent belittling caused you to view your body with a different perspective. By getting to the root of your negative body image, you can learn how to revive it.

The best way to do this is through individual counseling. At Heron Ridge Associates, we have specialists in many areas of mental health. This includes depression treatment, anxiety treatment, addiction treatment, eating disorder treatment, stress management, anger management, and more. We will match you with the best therapist for your specific needs, and you can find personalized solutions for boosting your self-esteem.

Contact our main office at (734) 454-3560 to get matched with a therapist near you.