How is Body Image Associated With Depression?

Key Takeaways:

• Negative body image is strongly associated with depression, regardless of age, gender, or weight.

• Negative body image can lead to social isolation and low self-esteem, which are known risk factors for depression.

• Treatment for depression related to body image issues often includes cognitive-behavioural therapy to change negative thought patterns and behaviours.

Body image is a topic that affects many of us. It refers to how we perceive and feel about our physical appearance, including our size, shape, and weight. We all have our own unique relationship with our body image and it's important to remember that there's no right or wrong way to feel about it. 

However, when we have a negative body image, it can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction and low self-esteem - which can lead to depression. On the other hand, having a positive body image means that we have an acceptance and appreciation of our bodies. 

Body Image and Depression

Researchers from the University of Wrocław in 2022 have found that there's a strong association between body image and depression. When we have negative thoughts and feelings about our bodies, it can lead to depression. It was also found that negative body image is associated with depression, regardless of weight, age, or gender. This means that even if we don't have depression if we have negative thoughts and feelings about our bodies, we are more likely to develop depression. 

Eating Disorders and Depression

Body image and depression are also closely associated with individuals with eating disorders. Eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia, are characterised by distorted body image and a preoccupation with weight and shape. Individuals with eating disorders often have a negative body image and are at a high risk of developing depression. In fact, research has found that up to 84% of individuals with an eating disorder also experience depression. 

Also read: Sadness vs. Depression: How to Tell the Difference

How are depression and body image related? 

There are a few possible explanations for the association between body image and depression. One is that negative body image can lead to social isolation. In order to avoid being judged or criticised for our appearance, we may avoid social situations, such as parties or gatherings, when we have negative thoughts and feelings about our bodies. This can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, which are known risk factors for depression.

Another explanation is that negative body image can lead to low self-esteem, which is a known risk factor for depression. When we have negative thoughts and feelings about our bodies, we may feel inadequate, which can lead to low self-esteem. Low self-esteem can, in turn, lead to depression as we may feel that we are not worthy of love, happiness, and success. 

Society and Culture

Society and culture also play an important role in the association between body image and depression. The constant influx of images of thin, conventionally attractive people in the media can distort body image and lower self-esteem. This can be particularly harmful to young people who are still forming their self-image. Research shows that exposure to media images of the "ideal" body type leads to increased body size, especially among young girls.

Plus, there is more pressure to conform to certain standards and body types, especially for women. This can also contribute to a warped and harmful view of body image. This increases the risk of depression and eating disorders.

How can depression stemming from body image issues be treated? 

There is a complex relationship between body image and depression. Other factors, such as genetics, personality, and life events, can also contribute to the development of depression. However, the research suggests that negative body image is a significant risk factor for depression and that addressing negative body image can be an important part of treating depression.

Treatment for depression often includes cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which can help individuals change negative thought patterns and behaviours related to body image. 

It's important to seek help if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depression or negative body image. After all, you deserve to feel better. Please reach out to a mental health professional and seek help if you relate to this article.