Body dysmorphia
We’re inundated by pictures of beautiful people all day long. In advertisements, on Netflix, and in social media, we’re given a very clear message about what counts and “beautiful” and “good” and what doesn’t. Paired with a natural drive to improve ourselves, it makes sense that many of us strive to improve how we look.
But when it comes to modifying our appearance, how far is too far? What’s the line between making little adjustments to boost our confidence and impact how others see us, and true problems with our body image?
Body dysmorphia is a condition where someone sees themselves much more negatively than others might, experience significant distress from how they imagine they look, and try to “fix” their appearance in harmful or risky ways. Extreme dieting and purging are common examples, and extreme body modification is becoming increasingly common.
These feelings are usually rooted in a combination of perfectionism and low self-esteem -- “there’s something wrong with me, and I’m supposed to be perfect. If I change this thing, there will be less wrong with me, and maybe I can stop worrying about myself.” This thinking, however, has it backwards. Imperfection is a fact of life, and it makes each of us unique and beautiful. Trying to “fix” our imperfections without working on our self-esteem won’t work in the long run.
We often care about how we look because our appearance is, in a way, a reflection of how much we care about ourselves. If you find that you’re seeking to change your appearance because you’re uncomfortable with how you look, and feel more bad than good when you look in the mirror, there are people who can help:
PsychologyToday: a website where you can find counsellors near you who specialize in issues you’d like to discuss
Body Dysmorphic Disorder Foundation: an organization that offers self-assessment and resources for people who may feel body dysmorphia
BounceBack: an online chat-based counselling available at no cost for residents of Ontario
Our purpose in providing cosmetic treatments is to help people reflect on the outside how beautiful and youthful they feel on the inside. We help people age gracefully and gently enhance their best features. Our treatments are based in a playful, fun approach to beauty and self-expression.
Botox and fillers can make small changes in how we look. They can’t can’t change how we feel about ourselves. Reaching out for help can be super hard for someone struggling with their self-esteem, and the struggle is all too common. If you think you might be dealing with body dysmorphia, please consider reaching out to somebody. You’re not alone, and you’re more beautiful than you know.
