As March comes to a close, I want to reflect on our kindness theme this month, being kind to our bodies. Mental health and body image are interrelated topics that can profoundly influence one’s life. Many people who struggle with mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, may also experience negative feelings about their bodies.
This could lead to emotional eating when someone eats in response to emotions rather than physical hunger. Emotional eating is often associated with unhealthy “comfort” foods and can lead to a cycle of negative thoughts about body image and mental health. Eating disorders are one of the most serious and debilitating consequences of this cycle. Eating disorders occur when someone experiences an extreme preoccupation with food and weight, which can have potentially life-threatening effects. Recognizing the signs of an eating disorder is important, as early intervention can lead to a successful recovery and improved mental health.
March is also Self-Injury Awareness Month. As we are kind to our bodies this month, we want to be aware of self-harm and understand ways to reduce this in either ourselves or our loved ones. We may not always be able to identify those who are self-harming, but we can recognize when people may need help. It’s essential to reach out and offer support in a kind and respectful way.
It is essential to address both mental health and body image together for someone to make positive strides toward their well-being. By attending therapy sessions or engaging in self-care activities such as mindfulness, one can make meaningful changes and break the cycle of negative thoughts. With proper support and care, overcoming mental health issues and eating disorders is possible. It’s important to remember that everyone deserves to live a healthy and happy life.
We encourage you to practice kindness towards your body by honoring its needs and treating it with respect. Take care of your body and mind, be mindful of the foods you put into it, and don’t forget to take time for yourself. Remember: Being kind to ourselves is the first step in being kind to others! Let’s spread kindness this month and beyond, starting with our bodies!
With kindness,
Francine Sumner