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Men and Body Image: A Closer Look
When we talk about body image issues, we often hear about how women are affected—but men struggle too, often silently. In recent years, more men are opening up about their experiences with self-esteem, body dissatisfaction, and disordered eating. Still, for many men in Chicago and beyond, these struggles remain hidden beneath layers of societal expectation and cultural silence.
As a men’s therapist in Chicago, I work with guys from all walks of life—corporate professionals, tradesmen, dads, athletes, students—and body image comes up more often than you’d think. Whether it’s pressure to be muscular, lean, or look a certain way in gym culture or on dating apps, the impact on a man’s mental health can be significant.
In this post, we’ll explore why body image matters for men, how societal pressures contribute to the problem, and what steps you can take to start healing. If you’re looking for male body image counseling in Chicago, know that you’re not alone—and there is help.
The Silent Struggle: Why Body Image Affects Men, Too
Men are often taught that their worth is tied to performance—strength, productivity, stoicism—not appearance. And yet, cultural images of the “ideal man” are everywhere: chiseled abs, broad shoulders, low body fat, perfect jawlines. From superhero movies to Instagram influencers, this standard can create impossible expectations.
Even though men may not talk about it openly, research shows that up to 40% of men are dissatisfied with their bodies. For some, this leads to excessive workouts, restrictive dieting, or even steroid use. For others, it shows up as anxiety, depression, or social withdrawal—especially in places like gyms, locker rooms, or while dating.
What makes this more challenging is that many men feel they don’t have “permission” to struggle with these feelings. It’s not uncommon for a guy to tell me in session, “I feel like I shouldn’t care this much about how I look.” But the truth is, body image is a human issue—not just a women’s issue.
Chicago’s Influence: Urban Pressure and the Comparison Trap
Living in a major city like Chicago brings unique pressures. Whether you’re walking through River North, working in the Loop, or jogging along Lake Michigan, the pressure to “look the part” can be real. Chicago’s fitness culture—while often positive—can also reinforce harmful comparisons.
For many men, the competitive job market adds another layer. Looking fit and confident is sometimes perceived as a professional advantage. Social media only amplifies this: endless feeds of shirtless selfies, filtered photos, and “before-and-after” transformations can lead to unhealthy self-comparisons.
At the Guy Counseling in Chicago, we often hear men say they feel “less than” because they don’t look a certain way. This comparison trap can chip away at self-esteem and reinforce the belief that they’re not good enough—physically or otherwise.
Societal Messages That Hurt Men
Let’s break down a few common cultural messages that contribute to body image struggles for men:
“Real men are jacked.”
The muscular ideal promoted in fitness magazines and action movies often becomes a benchmark. Men who don’t naturally build muscle may feel insecure or pressured to overtrain.
“Men shouldn’t care how they look.”
This message shames men for caring about appearance and creates silence around their struggles.
“Dad bod is okay—but only if you’re successful.”
Even body-positive messages for men are often conditional. The idea that you can have a “dad bod” but only if you’re funny, wealthy, or powerful still reinforces worth tied to external validation.
These mixed messages create confusion—and emotional isolation.
How Therapy Can Help: Body Image Counseling for Men in Chicago
One of the most powerful things a man can do is explore his relationship with his body in a safe, nonjudgmental space. Therapy offers exactly that.
At our Chicago counseling practice, we help men:
- Identify the origins of their body image beliefs
- Untangle body shame from self-worth
- Challenge the internalized “male ideal”
- Learn to care for their bodies from a place of self-respect—not punishment
- Address anxiety or depressive symptoms tied to appearance or self-esteem
Whether through individual sessions or men’s therapy groups, talking about body image isn’t weak—it’s courageous.
Practical Tips to Improve Body Image as a Man
If you’re not quite ready to jump into therapy, here are some steps you can take today:
1. Surround yourself with positive influences
Follow social media accounts that promote body neutrality or diversity—not unrealistic standards.
2. Reframe your internal dialogue
Notice when you criticize your body. Try replacing those thoughts with kinder, more realistic affirmations.
3. Stop body-checking
Avoid obsessively checking mirrors or comparing yourself to others at the gym. Focus on what your body can do, not just how it looks.
4. Engage in movement you enjoy
Instead of punishing workouts, choose physical activities that feel good. Whether it’s hiking at the Morton Arboretum, cycling by the lake, or just walking through your Chicago neighborhood, movement can be a form of self-care.
5. Talk about it
Confide in a trusted friend, partner, or therapist. Speaking your experience out loud can reduce shame and increase clarity.
You’re Not Alone: Reach Out for Support in Chicago
Body image issues don’t make you weak or vain—they make you human. If you’ve been struggling with how you see yourself and how it affects your confidence, relationships, or mood, therapy can help you shift that inner narrative.
At Guy Counseling Chicago, we specialize in helping men overcome body shame, anxiety, and the weight of expectations. Whether you’re dealing with low self-esteem, disordered eating, or just tired of fighting your reflection, we’re here to support you.
You don’t have to keep this to yourself. And you don’t have to “fix” your body to feel better about who you are.
Looking for Male Body Image Counseling in Chicago?
We offer confidential, compassionate therapy for men struggling with self-image. Reach out today for a free consultation and start your path toward self-acceptance.
