Maria’s Journey of Navigating Body Image Struggles as a Teen

“Being a teenager comes with dealing with many body image pressures. From a young age, I started having this problem as I constantly stared at images of 'perfect' bodies on social media, which left me feeling inadequate and insecure about my appearance. Social media only amplified these feelings, as I compared myself to influencers and celebrities who seemed to have it all together. As I grew older, I realized that chasing these unrealistic standards was damaging my self-esteem. I began curating my social media feed to include more diverse and body-positive content, which helped me appreciate the beauty in different body types, including my own. I also found solace in activities that made me feel strong and confident, like dancing and yoga. These pursuits shifted my focus from how my body looked to what it could do, fostering a healthier relationship with myself. It’s an ongoing journey, and there are still moments of doubt. But I've learned that self-acceptance and self-love are more important than fitting into society's definition of beauty. To any teenager struggling with body image, know that you're not alone. Surround yourself with positivity, embrace your uniqueness, and remember that true beauty comes from within. We're all perfectly imperfect, and that's what makes us uniquely beautiful. Embrace who you are, and celebrate your individuality. You are enough, just as you are.”

- quoted from my friend Maria