Published on: September 14, 2021
Updated on: September 30, 2025
Author: Kentucky Counseling Center
Body-shaming—ridiculing or criticizing someone’s appearance—remains a toxic behavior affecting people of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. Whether it’s about weight, height, skin color, or even a scar, body-shaming can happen both online and offline. The negative impact is profound, often leading to issues such as low self-esteem, depression, and disordered eating. This guide explores how to recognize body-shaming and provides strategies to overcome its damaging effects.
Understanding Body-Shaming
Body-shaming can be overt or subtle and may be directed at anyone—overweight, underweight, tall, short, or differently abled. In today’s digital age, social media amplifies the prevalence of body-shaming through negative comments and cyberbullying. Small self-care steps—like routine checkups with a dentist in Auburn Hills—can support overall well-being and confidence while you heal. According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), pervasive body-shaming can contribute to serious emotional and mental health problems.
Recognizing Body-Shaming
- Obvious Remarks:
- “You’ve gained too much weight.”
- “You’re too skinny; you need to eat more.”
- Subtle Insinuations:
- “Should you really be eating that cake?”
- “You need to join the gym soon.”
- “You’re too tall for a girl.”
- Cyberbullying:
- Harassing comments, direct messages, or memes on social media.
If these remarks make you feel uncomfortable or judged, you’re likely experiencing body-shaming.
How to Handle Body-Shaming
1. Recognize the Importance of Body Positivity
Body positivity is about appreciating and accepting your body for its strengths and unique qualities. It involves:
- Appreciating Your Health: Focus on what your body can do rather than what it looks like.
- Building Confidence: True self-assurance arises from embracing who you are, flaws included.
- Respecting Individual Journeys: Whether you choose to change your appearance for health reasons or not, body positivity means doing it on your own terms—not because someone else told you to.
2. Accept Yourself and Stop Hiding
It’s common for people who’ve been body-shamed to withdraw—avoiding social events, covering up their bodies, or isolating themselves. But life is too short to stay in the shadows. Consider:
- Gradual Exposure: If certain situations feel uncomfortable, take small steps to overcome them.
- Positive Self-Talk: Replace negative self-thoughts with affirmations that celebrate your worth and value.
3. Take Responsibility and Be Accountable
While it’s crucial to reject shaming comments, it’s also helpful to distinguish between bullying and genuine concern. For instance:
- Loved Ones’ Concern: Parents or friends might worry about health issues related to obesity or underweight conditions.
- Focus on Health, Not Appearance: If you decide to make lifestyle changes, do it for the sake of your health and well-being—not to meet someone else’s ideals.
4. Practice Self-Love by Being Kind to Yourself
Self-bullying—your own harsh inner voice—can be more destructive than external criticism. To cultivate kindness toward yourself:
- Body Appreciation Exercises: Stand in front of a mirror and acknowledge each part of your body with gratitude.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation: Techniques such as deep breathing or meditation can reduce the stress of negative thinking.
5. Take Control of Your Social Media Platforms
Social media can be both helpful and harmful. To make it a positive space:
- Unfollow Negative Accounts: Remove or block toxic profiles that make you feel bad about yourself.
- Follow Body-Positive Content: Look for influencers and pages that promote inclusivity, self-love, and healthy habits.
6. Be Grateful for Your Body
Gratitude is a powerful tool for counteracting negative thoughts. Try:
- Daily Gratitude Lists: Jot down a few things you appreciate about your body—e.g., its ability to heal, move, and experience life.
- Perspective Shift: Recognize that many social media images are highly filtered or edited. Comparing yourself to unrealistic standards only fuels self-doubt.
Responding to Body-Shaming Comments
What to Say to Someone Who Is Body-Shaming
Confronting body-shaming doesn’t have to escalate into conflict. You might say:
“Thank you for your concern, but I’m focusing on loving my body and staying positive. I’d appreciate if we steer clear of remarks about my appearance in the future.”
What to Do When Someone Is Body-Shaming You
- Call It Out Politely:
A straightforward, calm response can help you feel empowered—“I’m not comfortable with that comment, let’s talk about something else.” - Stay Composed:
Engaging in an argument often adds more stress. Respond respectfully and walk away if needed.
The Effects of Body-Shaming and Why We Must Stop
Constant criticism about appearance can lead to:
- Low self-esteem
- Disordered eating (e.g., binge eating, restricting food)
- Anxiety or depression
- Body dysmorphic disorder
We need to stop body-shaming because it does real harm, sometimes leaving lasting emotional scars. By being mindful of how we comment on appearances and addressing our own biases, we create a more supportive, empathetic community.
Seek Professional Help
If body-shaming has taken a toll on your mental health—contributing to anxiety, depression, or a negative body image—professional support can be life-changing. Kentucky Counseling Center (KCC) offers online mental health counseling, providing a judgment-free space to address these challenges. Our counselors can guide you in developing healthier coping strategies, reinforcing self-esteem, and navigating life’s hurdles with confidence.
