April 23, 2021
Each year, Body Positive Arizona sees more people interested in joining. “I think there is starting to be this recognition and movement of diversity and celebrating diverse bodies,” says Lisa MacDonald, the program’s director. (Photo courtesy of Lisa MacDonald/University of Arizona)
Before the pandemic, Body Positive Arizona members handed out compliment cards on the UArizona campus. The group hopes to resume those efforts soon. (Photo courtesy of Lisa MacDonald/University of Arizona)
PHOENIX – Beyond the physical toll of COVID-19, many are facing pandemic-related mental health challenges, including the way they view themselves and their bodies.
Stress, anxiety, depression and decreased human interaction all play a role in the development of negative body image, said Amy Lerner Wasserbauer, a clinical psychologist and counselor at Arizona State University.