Unrealistic & Unfair
Beauty standards have been a part of this world for as long as history has been written, especially when it comes to females. Females use to be told exactly what they had to wear each day and some women around the world are still living that reality in some form. However, our current society as a whole has taken these standards to a completely different level. These standards are negatively affecting the youth of our world mentally which can even lead to negative physical effects more than anyone else. These standards affect everyone subconsciously and consciously. Social media has been a key factor in the creation of this different level of beauty expectations. Nowadays, it is easy to go online and find hundreds of people getting praise for their looks that seem to come naturally. For many that results in an immediate realization that they look nothing like that, which makes people feel that they need to look like that to receive praise, validation, and love. Things like photoshop and plastic surgery have became increasingly more popular in the last five to ten years to truly be able to change themself to fit the standards which is something that has not been possible in decades and centuries past.
Mental Health Affecting Body Image
In an article written on “Project Helping” they write about how usually when mental health is mentioned people think of the brain. However, your mental health has a straight connection to your body as well and can affect it in many ways. These beauty standards promote mental disorders such as body dysmorphia, eating disorders, and depression. If someone is already suffering from these or other disorders seeing these beauty standards all over media can deepen them into their suffering. Creating a healthier body image can help battle unrealistic beauty standards and negative mental health at once. Some ways to promote a positive body image within yourself is to embrace what is in the mirror, make a list of things you enjoy about yourself and spend time with yourself. If you experience negative mental health symptoms from beauty standards it is important to not be hard on yourself and know it is normal.
Changing for Standards
A different article was written by Jaclyn Krizanic posted on “The Current” about how the rise of plastic surgery has changed how people react and deal with beauty standards. The article mentions how many celebrities get plastic surgery and deny it which leaves the public thinking that people look that way when they wake up everyone day. The Article went on the state that when celebrities embrace their surgery it encourages a positive mindset for the public. Plastic surgery isn’t a bad thing and should not be seen as the enemy, it’s the expectation to naturally look the same, unknowingly that surgery created that look. Surgery makes beauty unrealistic and is what killing self-esteem and body image across the world. There is no way to completely wipe out all standards and fix the world’s insecurities however, as a society it is important to try and find a solution when things have been taken too far.
Standards for the Future
Beauty will never be definitively defined, it will be forever changing. Everyone looks different and is beautiful in some way. Help promote a positive body image for yourself and the people around you.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health you can call: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
Grace Rothweiler