self-image
Image is Everything
Most women who struggle with eating disorders start their journey with a diet to lose five pounds. That simple desire becomes an uncontrollable obsession, fueled by the "image is everything" message that permeates our culture and warps our self esteem.
Some professionals see eating disorders as similar to other addictive behaviors. If that is true, we need to educate those around us on the reality of these diseases. On my flight home from Pennsylvania, I thought about the grim statistic that 15 percent of the more than 1 million Americans with anorexia will die from it. A report on managed care reimbursement for eating disorders that appeared in U.S. News and World Report cites, "Of all mental illnesses, anorexia has the highest mortality rate."
Although eating disorders can turn deadly, they can also be treated. But if physicians and parents don"t pay attention to this problem — or are not aware of the warning signs, symptoms and manifestations of the disease — young people may suffer needlessly. It"s time to dispel the "image is everything" myth for your patients, their parents and your own family by emphasizing that a person"s value is based on who she is, not on what she looks like.
Background Information
A Matter of Perspective
How you view yourself has a lot to do with how others see you.
More Than Skin Deep
In this culture, it's hard to believe beauty is more than skin deep.
Questions and Answers
Leslie's husband died a few years ago. Despite her tremendous abilities Leslie struggles with low self-esteem. How can she improve her self-esteem and make sure her daughters grow up valuing themselves?
Answer
Review Frequently Asked Questions
Stories
Winning at Losing
Losing weight has its ups and downs. Learn how to do it right and win at losing.
Skin Deep
A beauty pageant contestant discovers looks aren't all they're made up to be.
The Weight of Being Fat
I joined Weight Watchers when I was 13. Why couldn't I just be normal?
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall
One's worth and value may not come from where you expect.
If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.Share Your Story
Other Things to Consider
Embracing the Real You
While many people obsess about their less-than-perfect bodies, countless others fret over their intelligence, ethnicity or economic status. Do you have trouble accepting yourself?
The Pain of Perfectionism
Some perfectionists suffer from low self-esteem because they think they must be perfect — something they can never be — to like themselves.
Related Topics
Transitions: Changing Jobs, Moving
Relationships: Communication Gaps
Parenting Teens: Communication Problems
