How to Deal with Body Shaming from Friends and Strangers

Body shaming is when people make you feel bad about how you look. It’s not just about weight; it can be about being too tall, skinny, or different.  Body shaming can happen anywhere! Online, by friends or family, and even strangers. Here’s a simple take on how to deal with body shaming.

Understanding Body Shaming

Understanding how to deal with body shaming starts with recognising that it is a widespread issue affecting people of all ages, sizes, and backgrounds. Body shaming isn’t just about being told to lose weight; it encompasses a wide range of negative comments and attitudes towards someone’s physical appearance. This can include criticism for being too thin, too tall, having a specific skin condition, or not fitting into societal standards of beauty in any number of ways.

Examples You Might Encounter

1. Direct Comments: Someone might say, “You should really hit the gym” or “You’d be so pretty if you lost weight.” These are straightforward and can hurt a lot!
2. Sneaky Remarks: These are trickier. Imagine a friend saying, “You’re brave for wearing that outfit,” implying most wouldn’t wear it because of their body type.

Effects of Body Shaming

Feeling shamed about your body can lead to feeling really down about yourself, not liking how you look, and even avoiding social situations. For some, it can lead to serious issues like not eating right or feeling low for a long time. This is why knowing how to deal with body shaming is crucial.

How to Deal with Body Shaming

1. Talk About Body Positivity: Start loving your body for what it can do, not just how it looks. Celebrate being healthy and strong. If someone’s body shames you, remind yourself of all the good things your body does for you every day.
2. Know You’re Not Alone: Many people feel body-shamed. Sharing your feelings with friends or family can make you feel better and remind you of your worth beyond your appearance.
3. Educate Others: Sometimes, people don’t realize they’re being hurtful. Explaining why their comments are harmful can help them think before they speak next time.
4. Set Boundaries on Social Media: Online can be full of body shaming. Don’t be afraid to block or unfollow people who make you feel bad about yourself. Fill your feed with positive vibes instead.
5. Seek Support if Needed: If body shaming is making you feel down, talking to a counsellor or therapist can help. They can teach you more ways to deal with body shaming and feel good about yourself again.

Remember:

How to deal with body shaming is about more than just facing mean comments. It’s about building a world where we all feel good about ourselves. Let’s focus on kindness and support rather than judgment.