Let’s be honest, body shaming hurts. And when it comes from the people who are supposed to love and support us the most, it can be heartbreaking. Maybe it’s a passing comment about your weight, a joke about how you look, or a comparison to someone else. No matter how it happens, body shaming can make you feel small, unworthy, and even question your self-worth.
If you’ve ever felt this pain, I want you to know: You are not alone, and you do not deserve this. Your body is not a problem to be fixed. It is your home, and it deserves love and respect, especially from you.
Let’s talk about how to deal with body shaming from friends and family, with kindness, strength, and self-love.
1. Remember: Their Words Say More About Them Than You
When someone criticizes your body, it is often a reflection of their own insecurities, beliefs, or upbringing. Society has taught many people that beauty equals worth, and sadly, some pass this harmful idea onto others. But their words do not define you. They do not get to decide your worth, you do.
2. Set Boundaries – You Have the Right to Say “No”
If someone in your life constantly makes comments about your body, it’s okay to set boundaries. You can kindly but firmly let them know that their words hurt you. Here are a few ways to respond:
- “I don’t appreciate comments about my body. Please stop.”
- “My body is not up for discussion.”
- “I choose to love and respect myself, and I’d appreciate it if you did too.”
You don’t have to explain yourself or seek their approval. Your feelings are valid, and your comfort matters.
3. Stand Up for Yourself (If You Feel Safe to Do So)
Sometimes, people don’t even realize they’re being hurtful. If you feel comfortable, try expressing how their words make you feel. You could say:
- “When you say that, it makes me feel really bad about myself.”
- “I know you may not mean harm, but these comments are hurtful.”
- “I’d love to talk about something else. My body is not a topic of conversation.”
It’s okay to speak up for yourself. You deserve to be treated with kindness and respect.
4. Surround Yourself with Positivity
If your friends or family make you feel bad about your body, try to spend more time with people who lift you up. Find friends who celebrate you for who you are, not just how you look. Follow social media accounts that promote self-love and body acceptance. Fill your world with positivity, it makes a huge difference.
5. Practice Self-Love and Self-Compassion
Your body is not the problem. The problem is the unrealistic beauty standards society pushes on us. Start showing yourself the love you deserve:
- Look in the mirror and say something kind to yourself.
- Wear clothes that make you feel good, not what others expect you to wear.
- Do things that make you happy, dancing, painting, reading, anything that brings you joy.
- Remind yourself every day: You are enough. Just as you are.
6. Seek Support When You Need It
If body shaming is affecting your mental health, please know that you don’t have to go through this alone. Talking to a trusted friend, therapist, or support group can help. You deserve support, and there are people who care and want to help you heal.
7. Remember: Your Worth Is Not Measured by Your Size
You are worthy of love, happiness, and respect exactly as you are. Your body does not determine your value, your kindness, your heart, and your spirit do.
No one else gets to decide how you should feel about yourself. That power belongs to you. So choose self-love, choose kindness, and most of all, choose yourself.
You Are Beautiful, Just as You Are
If no one has told you today: You are beautiful. You are enough. You are worthy.
And if someone tries to make you feel otherwise, remember, you don’t have to accept their words as truth. The truth is, you are incredible, just as you are.
With love and strength, Prakul.
