Contents
What is Body Modification?
Body modification is a collective term for the physical changes made to the body for a variety of motives, aesthetic and medical. Tattoos, piercings, scarification and cosmetic surgeries are some of the most widely known types of body modifications.
Benefits of Body Modification for Mental Health & Wellbeing
Body modification can have both positive and negative effects on individual’s mental health and wellbeing. The process of body modification can help individuals boost self-confidence, as research indicates that people who have had body modifications tend to report increased levels of self-esteem.
The physical changes associated with body modification can also provide individuals with a sense of control and power, which can lead to improved mental health. By taking control of your body, individuals can become more empowered and this can reduce anxiety, stress, depression and trauma.
Body Modification can Lead to Increased Sense of Identity
One of the main reasons someone might opt to go through body modification is to express themselves. By choosing to permanently alter their body, individuals can create a unique, individual identity that allows them to stand out from the crowd. Through the body modifications, individuals can build an identity that is theirs and that cannot be taken away or changed.
Body Modification can Help Reduce Social Anxiety
Body modification can be a great way of relieving social anxiety, as the changes made to the body can provide an individual with a sense of security and identity. As a result, individuals can feel more comfortable in social situations as they have an increased sense of security and confidence in the knowledge that their body serves as a reflection of who they are.
Benefits of Body Modification for Health
The physical changes associated with body modification can have several positive effects on the health of individuals, including the following:
Reduction in Stress
Studies conducted by the American Psychological Association indicated that body modifications can provide individuals with a sense of comfort and security, which can help to reduce stress. Moreover, stress can have a negative impact on one’s physical health as it can cause headaches and digestive problems.
Reduction of Anxiety
The physical changes associated with body modifications can also reduce anxiety levels, which can have a positive effect on one’s physical health. The National Institute of Mental Health noted that people who have lower levels of anxiety usually have lower levels of stress, better cognitive functioning and can sleep better.
Conclusion
Although body modification can have both positive and negative effects, it can be beneficial for mental health & wellbeing and health in many ways. From increased self-esteem to a reduction in stress, anxiety and improved physical health, body modification can have many positive effects on an individual’s mental and physical health.
Keywords: Mental Health & Wellbeing, Body Modification, Health, Self-Esteem, Anxiety, Stress, Cognitive Functioning.