PAY ATTENTION TO your self-talk. If harsh thoughts about the way you look
are bringing you down, take these steps to build a positive portrait of self-worth:
RESPECT YOURSELF AND YOUR BODY. Perhaps you can't run like the wind
or look fabulous in a bathing suit. Don't base your sense of self-worth on
others. Make a list of the qualities you admire about yourself rather than
what's celebrated in the media. Remind yourself of your
personal strengths when you're feeling down.
SET REALISTIC GOALS. Losing extra weight
is a great overall goal—but take small steps
to get there. Aim to lose two pounds in
a week, not 40 pounds this summer.
When you meet one goal, think of
the next one you want to achieve. To
promote both physical and mental well-
being, make it your habit to fix healthy
meals and snacks, set aside time for
regular exercise, and get plenty of rest.
HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT
Eating disorders can affect anyone. The
following behaviors could suggest a need
for medical help.
EATING ALONE. A person who usually
responds "I just ate" when asked
to eat with others may be skipping
meals. Someone who is secretive about
eating could be binging and purging
when alone.
CUTTING OUT FOOD GROUPS. People
with eating disorders often claim they
are following a special diet—such as
vegan, gluten-free, or raw food only—
to restrict calories.
OBSESSING ABOUT COOKING OR
FITNESS.
Paying attention to diet and
exercise is important for good health,
but thinking or talking about little else
is a red flag.
A
POSITIVE
picture
EVERYONE STRUGGLES
WITH BODY IMAGE FROM
TIME TO TIME, WANTING
TO FIT INTO THAT PERFECT
DRESS OR LOOK YOUNGER
FOR AN UPCOMING CLASS
REUNION. BUT NEGATIVE
THOUGHTS THAT WON'T GO
AWAY COULD DAMAGE YOUR
SELF-ESTEEM.
MEAL
PROVIDED
KishHealth
System Behavioral
Health Services
offers a variety of classes
for teens and adults.
Turn to the center spread or visit
KISHBEHAVIORALHEALTH.ORG
for more information.
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