Download the free handout HERE!

For many of us, looking at photos of ourselves can be surprisingly difficult. A simple image can stir up a flood of critical thoughts—about how we look, who we were, or what we believe others see in us. If you’ve ever avoided a photo because it felt “triggering” or found yourself spiraling into self-judgment after scrolling through old pictures, you’re not alone.


Living in a Filtered World

In a world saturated by social media, this experience has become even more common. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok flood our feeds with highly curated, filtered, and often idealized images. Over time, this constant exposure can distort our sense of what’s “normal” or “beautiful,” subtly convincing us that we should always look polished, happy, and effortless. It’s no wonder that so many people feel uneasy or even ashamed when they see unedited, authentic photos of themselves.


Shifting the Lens: A Reflective Approach

That’s exactly why this reflection worksheet was created. It’s not just a tool—it’s an invitation to pause, breathe, and begin to shift how you see yourself.

Rather than quickly dismissing photos that bring up discomfort, this practice encourages you to stay curious:

• What stories are you telling yourself in these moments? 
• Where did those stories come from? 
• And—most importantly—do they truly serve you?

Take Your Time

There’s no rush here. Let each step be an opportunity to explore how you view yourself—not just on the outside, but on a deeper, more meaningful level.

Because the way we see ourselves matters. And you deserve to look at yourself with kindness—even in a world that often tells you otherwise.

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Support for Photo Triggers in Eating Disorder Recovery

Here at The Eating Disorder Center, we provide eating disorder therapy in Rockville, Maryland, and virtually throughout MD, VA, DC, PA, NY, FL, and CA for children, teens, and adults struggling with anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, OSFED, ARFID, orthorexia, and compulsive exercise.

We also have therapists who specialize in eating disorders co-occurring with trauma, OCD, and mood disorders. Many of our clinicians are personally recovered from eating disorders and have been there – we truly want to help! ​

​Taking time to check in with your mental health can make a big difference—especially during the challenges of eating disorder recovery. That’s why our team at The Eating Disorder Center has created a free Mental Health Check-In Handout designed to support individuals working through eating disorders, body image concerns, and other mental health stressors.

👉 Download the FREE handout here!


How to Use the Handout

Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or just need a moment to reflect, this handout offers a structured way to pause and check in with yourself. It includes thoughtful prompts around:

• How you’re feeling emotionally and physically
• Current struggles or stressors
• Supportive people in your life
• Coping tools you can turn to
• Short-term goals and intentions

​Many clients find it helpful to fill this out before an eating disorder therapy or recovery coaching session to organize their thoughts and guide the conversation.


Why These Tools Matter

Recovery from an eating disorder—or any mental health challenge—can often feel like a full-time job. We know that therapy sessions are just one piece of the puzzle. That’s why we’re committed to offering free, accessible resources to support you in between appointments and in your daily life.

This handout is one of many tools our clinicians use to help clients engage with their recovery in a hands-on, empowering way.


About The Eating Disorder Center

Located in Rockville, Maryland, we specialize in therapy for eating disorders and body image issues, serving the greater Montgomery County area—including Bethesda, Potomac, Gaithersburg, and Olney—with virtual therapy available throughout Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.

We work with children, teens, and adults experiencing:

• Anorexia
• Bulimia
• Binge Eating Disorder
• OSFED
• ARFID
• Orthorexia
• Compulsive Exercise

Our approach is active and results-driven—not your typical “smile and nod” therapy. We incorporate evidence-based practices like CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) to reduce eating disorder thoughts and behaviors and promote lasting change. Many of our clinicians also specialize in treating co-occurring conditions like trauma, OCD, and mood disorders.


We’re Here for You
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Whether you're just starting recovery or looking for new tools to support ongoing progress, we hope this handout becomes a helpful part of your journey. And if you’re seeking a therapeutic partner in that process, our team is here to walk alongside you with care and expertise.

📍 In-person sessions available in Rockville, MD | Virtual sessions throughout MD, VA & D.C.