An Interesting Article on Men and Body Image Issues

I found this to be an interesting article.

I'm A Man, And I've Spent My Life Ashamed Of My Body

When I was young I was always short and skinny. As far as appearances go, I've always been a turd (been called ugly more times than I can count). Now that I'm on antidepressants, I'm short and fat. If I eat over 1500 calories per day, I gain weight (and I'm not allowed a day to eat 2000 calories or I gain). I lifted weights and dieted like crazy during my 30s and at my best I was about 175 lbs and 10-12% body fat; not exactly Men's Fitness cover worthy, but enough to not feel like a puny loser. A combination of job change and finances and I dropped back to 155 and 18% body fat and have only gotten worse (195 lbs now and too-much% body fat).

That said, they can add me to the list of guys that doesn't like his picture taken, always feel I could lose (or gain) weight and would trade 2-5 years off my life for a perfect body. I've never looked in the mirror as a whole except as a psychological exercise. I only make sure my beard is trimmed right or I don't have a big zit, never to see what's really there.

I think more men have body image issues than we begin to perceive. Maybe it's time to start talking about it instead of arguing over "dad bods".

Webgoji, I am appreciative of you sharing this article. I have my issues too. I just seem to hover in a higher weight than high school. The more I exercise it may be more muscle than fat.

Well let's have a discussion about what is in men's hearts. Not just bods, but sensitivity and compassion. What do ya say?

Very good point. At least from my days, men were always told to be strong for others, to be their rock so many of my generation don't really even know how to talk about or address their own feelings. Even today, it seems to be a double edged sword when a man brings up his insecurities and worries. That chink in the confidence seems to be seen as weakness among other men and a put-off for women.

But at least the conversation is starting.

I hear you. I have issues. Hate my appearance even tho other people say otherwise. I think there is a big difference between weight problems and just fundamentally hating the way you look. In either case though it can be very deflating and a terrible feeling to drag thru life like an anchor.