Not an lgbtq related ask, but could you pray for me please? Idk why but I get sickening anxiety whenever I look at my own body other than my face. Im certain its not dysphoria and I dont think negatively about my body, yet I feel ashamed and sick whenever I study myself too closely. Its very odd and takes a huge toll on my life. I dont know how to get help, so I was hoping you all would pray for me. Thank you <3
Hey there, anon. I’m no psychologist, so I’m not sure what that could be. I know “body dysmorphia” is a term; or perhaps it could be some sort of phobia? I recommend finding a psychologist for help in learning to cope with these feelings of anxiety, because you shouldn’t have to live like that, dear.
If you are still in school, you might be able to get a counselor that way. Churches sometimes also have counselors employed through them who have inexpensive sessions available, though they aren’t always trained in non-faith-based psychology so I’m not sure if they’d have answers. Does anyone have other suggestions for anon for getting help?
Anyway, we will be praying for you.
O God who fashioned us in your own image,Let this person feel your love and presence when their mind causes them to feel anxious upon seeing their own body. Fill them with your peace. Help them know that you love them dearly and made them special, body and all -- but that feeling the way they do does not “offend” you or anything of that sort; that they can appreciate what the body you made for them allows them to do even with these feelings. Guide them towards healing, whether that lies in making that anxiety go away or learning how to cope with it. Amen.
