Written by Erica Mashall-Lee, Ph.D., ABPP, Sheethal D. Reddy, Ph.D., and Desiree Frain, Psy.D., on behalf of the Atlanta Behavioral Health Advocates.

“She has such a pretty face—pity she’s so heavy.” “He is so athletic to be so skinny.” “I’d kill to be that skinny!” “You must be having a hard time—I see you've put on a little weight.” “Do you think you should eat that?”

These types of comments are not only unwelcome but harmful mentally and physically. As someone whose weight has ranged from 89 to 219 pounds, I have heard it all. The comments have impacted me in ways that to this day, I do not fully share with anyone.

As a psychologist, this has helped me to relate, build rapport, and empathize with my clients—especially the ones who say, “You don’t know what it’s like to be so heavy/to try to gain weight” especially. Ah, but I do!

At the ripe old age of 25, I found myself in tears when my father told me that I should drink Diet Coke, and again at 53 when my mother said I looked weak and frail and should eat more. My parents mean well and have good intentions; however, the comments had very deep effects.

This “fat talk” or “body shaming” can be the root of a multitude of mental health concerns that may lead to or stem from physical conditions. I once heard someone say, “The only time you should comment on someone’s body is if they are on fire” and I tend to agree (though I might add also if they are bleeding).

Body shaming encompasses statements, comments, and nonverbal behaviors that produce a feeling of shame in an individual about their appearance. Body shaming can happen to anyone—large or small, old or young, able-bodied or disabled, and conventionally attractive or unattractive individuals. However, some individuals may be more susceptible to negative statements about one’s appearance than others.

If you are familiar with the literature on body image and gender, it will come as no surprise that women are significantly more likely to experience body shaming than........

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