Through your experiences, what is the average percentage of people who have self-image

issues?

Ans:

Let me start off with hyperbole. I would say about 100 percent of people have self-image
issues. Of course, this is an exaggeration. But I say this based on the fact that most of us don’t
even realise what “self-image” even comprises. In therapy, we speak about people’s
experiences in the context of others, the world, and themselves. Self involves who we are,
who we think we are, and who we wish to be. Self-image is defined as more than just mere
physical appearance. It is unique to every individual. Most people struggle with self-image to
the extent of not identifying with some of its aspects.

While it’s hard to say how much of a percentage of people have self-image issues, certain
disorders have significantly higher self-image issues than others. For example, individuals
diagnosed with certain disorders have significantly higher self-image issues than others.

• Borderline personality disorder

• Body dysmorphic disorder
• Eating disorders like bulimia and anorexia
• Certain kinds of OCD
• Narcissistic personality disorder
• Depression
• Social anxiety disorder
• Folks who identify differently than their assigned gender at birth (some individuals
from the LGBTQIA community)

Is it a problem that has been increasing? If yes, why do you think so?

Ans.

Self-image issues have been a problem since time immemorial, but with social media, selfie
overload, and a million filters to hide our flaws, it surely has compounded. Social media is,
sadly, a breeding ground for insecurities. Likes, comments, and trolling determine people’s
self-worth. With everyone having access to each other sitting across the globe, it is becoming
more competitive about grabbing the eye balls.

Many use make-up as a form of expression, but some also use make-up as escapism [from
their self-image that they don't appreciate or feel confident in]. Is the latter, in your opinion,
healthy?

Ans.
Well, both can co-exist as well. To escape from the “real self” towards the “perceived ideal
self," make-up can come in handy.

But at the same time, it is also a coping skill. Coping skills are broadly considered healthy
and unhealthy on the basis of: how much, how often are they used, is it becoming an
obsession in itself, is there rigidity, and is it taking a great toll on someone's professional and
personal life? Basically, even “working” is a coping skill, but when done to escape emotions
and turn into a workaholic, it is inevitably deemed unhealthy.

Likewise, in make-up, how much is too much is hard to define. And how much are you using
this coping skill to overcome your insecurities? It is necessary to weigh in.

What are the perils of using make-up as a tool to suppress such emotions?

Ans.

As I mentioned earlier, excess of anything is bad. The same goes for makeup. If make-up is
being used to “feel good and lift me up” every now and then, that’s great. But when used
alone as a coping skill without addressing the core emotions, it can backfire.

You rightfully used the word. "suppression." It is a defence mechanism. Individuals

consciously push away or deliberately avoid thoughts, feelings, or memories that they
perceive as distressing or unacceptable. In moderation, suppression can serve as a temporary
coping strategy, but it's important to complement it with other approaches such as problem-
solving, seeking support, or addressing the root causes of the distress to ensure long-term
emotional well-being.

Make-up can be used as an art of "sublimation"—to use one’s craft to metamorph into
something you wish to be—and can be kept handy. For some individuals, applying makeup
might serve as a means of channelling feelings of insecurity, anxiety, or a desire for self-
improvement into a creative or socially acceptable activity. It can be a way to express oneself
artistically, enhance self-esteem, or project a certain image to the world.

The perils of excessive use are:

• Disconnection from yourself.

• Not engaging in other forms of self-expression (example, journaling, dancing,
running, etc.)
• Self-image issues: Many cannot imagine themselves without make-up.
• Conflict within the “real” and “ideal” look
• Dependency on make-up becomes a behavioural addiction.
• Overspending and buying
Many other times, conventionally, women would deal with issues at home or work but put on
makeup to forget the challenges and move ahead with the day or life. Is that a healthy way to
"move on" or "keep going"?

Ans.

Make-up is often considered akin to putting on a “mask” or "layers.”.

There is anecdotal evidence in some research that shows that getting ready, slapping on some
lipstick and make-up, and going out in the world can help you. In fact, new mothers are
encouraged to apply make-up to feel better about themselves when battling the blues.

Psychologically, the act of grooming or engaging in self-care activities like applying makeup
can trigger a positive response in the brain, potentially improving mood. It might provide a
temporary distraction or a sense of control, enhancing self-esteem and confidence.

But notice the words “temporary” and “distraction” carefully.

Sad girl make-up/crying make-up {a look you create to look sad or as if you've cried} is
trending on TikTok. What are your thoughts on this? Is it fair to use sadness in this manner or
even "make up" sadness when you're not really sad?

Ans.

The beauty of trends these days is that they catch on fast, but they also highlight some of our
deep insecurities. No one looks good when crying, and hence the dewy look with a reddish
nose is supposed to represent looking good even when crying. I would refrain from
commenting “fair” or "unfair,” but pretending to be something you are not is conflicting with
your inner self. So dabble in these trends with balance and caution.

Make-up trends have become a means of monetary gain, and if someone is creating them
purely out of that, their intentions are clear. The issue is that many impressionable young
minds are on social media who don’t understand these.

What is the right way to address your emotions that you feel like suppressing?

If I had to give a crash course in emotions, these essential pointers are worth noting.

• Learn to understand emotions better.

• Emotions are not good or bad, nor positive or negative.
• Consider different emotions, like the colours of a rainbow. All have their place.
• Learn to read an emotion wheel and name your emotions to yourself multiple times a
day.
• Stop with the toxic positivity of “good vibes only” all the time. No one can stay happy
all the time. We aren’t unicorns.
• Identify the emotions that you put in the “negative” bucket and start reading what
happens to your body when you go through them.
• Don’t use only one coping skill. Try to have many in your tool kit. After all, even if a
car has four tires and one spare, how can you travel with just one strategy?
 • Exploring emotions is enhanced through journaling, talking, or starting meditation.
• Find a therapist if you are unable to understand your inner conflicts. We all have a
mole on our backs we can’t see. Similarly, a therapist may help you find your blind
spots for emotions.

And finally, let me tell you that you are “fine” the way you are. No one is perfect.

Some extra research you can peruse for your own use in crafting the article

https://www.teenvogue.com/story/how-makeup-affects-depression-anxiety

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9980851/

My designation and name are:

Dr. Era Dutta

MD Psychiatry, MBBS
Consultant Psychiatrist
Founder, Mind Wellness