12 Things You Don't Realize Are Making You Unhappy About Your Body

Avoiding activities you normally consider enjoyable –– for example, swimming or going to the beach –– because you don't want to be seen in a bathing suit is understandable to many, but nonetheless detrimental or your body image and overall mental health.

That being said, if you end up going to the beach with your friends and spend the whole time trying to hide or cover up your "flaws," whether in photos or IRL, that's just as hurtful as not going at all. The ultimate goal is to accept, enjoy and befriend your body, not hide it or feel ashamed of it.