Hey there. When you hear the term “body dysmorphia,” what comes to mind? For a lot of people, especially those going through a weight loss journey, it gets tossed around quickly. But body dysmorphic disorder is a real mental health condition, and it needs to be taken seriously. I’m not a therapist or a doctor, and most people you hear using this term online aren’t either. Still, I want to talk about the emotional side of this because how you feel about yourself matters.
Just because you haven’t been diagnosed doesn’t mean your experience isn’t valid. If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and felt like you were still seeing an older version of yourself, or if you can’t recognize the progress you’ve made, you’re not alone. I’ve had so many conversations where someone tells me, “I still see the old me.” And that’s not something to ignore. That’s something to take seriously and to talk about with a professional.
Therapy has helped me in so many ways. I honestly believe everyone should try it. It’s not a quick fix, and it can take time to find someone who really gets you. But the work you do in therapy can help you build a better relationship with yourself from the inside/out. If therapy isn’t accessible right now, that doesn’t mean you can’t start doing the work. You can begin by reflecting, journaling, and observing how you talk to yourself each day.
The mirror might not always reflect the full picture. If your self-image is affecting how you show up in your daily life, I want to encourage you to talk to your doctor or a therapist. A medical professional who knows your history can help you sort out what’s happening and either give you the diagnosis and support you need or offer peace of mind and clarity.
While you're working through this, I’m here to help you start building that relationship with yourself. The YLF Framework and the daily action plans are designed to get you thinking, reflecting, and moving forward even before you step into a professional’s office. The inside/out work doesn’t wait for the perfect moment. It starts with where you are right now.
If this post resonated with you and you’re ready to start working through your thoughts, habits, and actions in a supportive and sustainable way, I invite you to work with me. Let’s start building that foundation together.