Well. It’s about that time of year again. You’re going to start seeing the advertisements everywhere: “8 Weeks to a Better Spring Break Body!”; “The Ultimate 4-Week Spring Break Workout Plan!”; “Get Spring Break Ready in Two Weeks.”
Whether it’s a family member commenting on how “she doesn’t have the body to be wearing that,” listening to a friend go on and on about her latest diet so she can lose weight to go on vacation, or the media encouraging us to get “bikini ready,” I’m tired of all of the body shaming and fat talk I hear on a daily basis.
Presidential elect Donald Trump recently explained to ABC’S David Muir, “I just don’t think [Hillary Clinton] has a presidential look, and you need a presidential look.” What exactly is the presidential look? How does someone look presidential? Is it the way they dress? Perhaps it is the way they style their hair or do their make-up? Maybe the better question is, does one’s dress, hair, or makeup bear any consequence on one’s ability to run a country? Why is women’s appearance so important?
If you are experiencing strong reactions to the results, remember to use some grounding and self-soothing strategies today. Remember also that you can come to Student Counseling Services for support.
The Body Project, offered by Student Counseling Services and Health Promotion and Wellness here at Illinois State, focuses on body positivity rather than body shaming.
Feeling anxious? You are not alone. Anxiety is the No. 1 reason that students seek counseling at Student Counseling Services.
Being a first-generation college student isn’t easy. Here are some resources that could help.
Many Americans, especially underrepresented Americans, are finding this election season very stressful.
Illinois State University’s Student Counseling Services is launching a new group for students of color to talk about stresses unique to their experience on campus.
Latina/o students may be reluctant to seek out counseling services.
