Healthy Relationships Start from Within
Disclaimer: The following content discusses eating disorders, struggles with body, and related topics. Please be advised that the information provided is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, we urge you to please seek support.
It's so easy to get lost in the world of social media in this digital age. We often fall into the trap of believing that everyone on our feed or FYP is living the perfect life, with flawless skin, and perfect bodies. When these posts flood our social media, it’s easy to slip into the harmful habit of comparison.
Believe me, I know this feeling all too well. For the longest time, starting in high school, I was stuck in that same trap, constantly comparing myself to everyone I saw online. It didn’t matter whether they were people I knew in real life or influencers and celebrities. I was always comparing myself against them all.
Over time, I started picking myself apart in the mirror, wondering why I didn't look like them. Eventually, it took a toll on my self-worth and ultimately affected my relationship with food.
The harsh reality is that comparison really does have an impact on everyone, regardless of gender. It is, in fact, a slippery slope. For me, it started with small things, just skipping a meal here and there, and when I ate, I felt guilty about eating anything, even if it was healthy. As more time passed by, my thoughts about food became obsessive. I convinced myself that if I could control what I ate, I would finally feel good enough and be like the people I saw on social media. However, no matter how much weight I lost in high school, it wasn't enough.
It wasn't until I started getting help that I had to face the harsh reality that social media isn't reality. It only shows the best parts of someone's life. It's all just filters, editing, lighting, and angles. So, when you compare yourself, you're comparing yourself to something artificial and most likely someone's best moment.
Presently, being in my early 20s now, I will admit that I still do struggle with comparison. Just not as bad as when I was in high school. Breaking free from this habit is truthfully not easy at all. But throughout time I've been able to begin unlearning the lies social media feeds you. Some of the things I've tried over the years that have helped me a lot are:
- Unfollowing accounts that make me feel bad about myself
- Shifting my focus to strength, energy, and feeling good, rather than numbers on a scale
- Opening up and getting help, whether from a friend, loved one, family member, or a professional, to talk through my feelings
- Reminding myself as much as possible, when I feel myself falling into the trap of comparison, that my worth is never linked to weight, body shape, or how I look
Altogether, if you're struggling with body image, comparison, or an unhealthy relationship with food, please try your best to remember that you are more than what social media makes you believe.
Resources for Individuals Affected by Eating Disorders
National Eating Disorder Information Centre: Helpline
Sheena’s Place: Support for eating disorders
Ontario Mental Health Association: Provides and educational background on eating disorders and a comprehensive list for those struggling with body image and eating disorders
