Distorted Self-Image
Do you suffer from anxiety or depression? Do you often feel awkward and self-conscious in social settings? Are you constantly comparing yourself to others and finding you never measure up?
Self-image is a concept that speaks to how we feel about ourselves. When one has a healthy self-image, they feel confident, centered, and worthy of love. People with a distorted self-image often feel shame and self-doubt. They often feel critical of themselves and are unworthy of love or praise.
- Recognizing A Distorted Self-Image - Individuals with a distorted self-image typically cope with it using one of the following three models:
- Imposter Syndrome - These individuals project false confidence and use their accomplishments to mask their insecurities. We often find perfectionists and procrastinators in this group.
- Rebellion - These individuals pretend to not care about what others think of them. Feelings of inferiority may often come across as anger or blame. Some may act out by defying authority and even breaking the law.
- Victimhood - In this scenario, a distorted self-image causes the person to feel helpless in the face of life’s challenges. They may play the role of the victim and rely on others.
Regardless of how a distorted self-image manifests, the results are always the same:
- Depression and anxiety
- Lack of joy in life
- Anger, guilt, sadness
- Self-doubt
- A lack of resilience
- Loneliness
- Isolation
- Eating issues
- Codependency
- Self-harm
Treatment for a Distorted Self-Image
The good news is that your self-image is something that can be changed by changing your beliefs, behavior and how you think about yourself. Having said this, most people developed their self-image issues in childhood and have been living with a distorted self-image for a very long time. For this reason, it is advised that they seek the guidance of a trained therapist.
Having a knowledgeable and supportive therapist in your corner can help you develop a healthier and more realistic sense of self. He or she will help you connect the dots in your life, discover where your self-image came from, and provide tools so you can absolve your negative beliefs and critical self-talk and replace them with self-love and self-compassion.
If you suffer from a distorted self-image and would like to explore treatment options, please reach out to me.