How do I feel good about my body when I’m always reminded about my weight?

I’d like to take this opportunity to discuss self-esteem, self-worth and self-care — basically, the relationship you have with yourself. The topics of healthy eating, exercise and body image are for another day.

With almost 100% certainty, every teenager will experience at least one moment of discomfort or embarrassment about their body. It’s only natural. You are changing almost daily. Acne, stretch marks, body odor, body hair, sweat, boob growth, penis growth, periods, growth spurts and weight gain are all byproducts of puberty. If you are a healthy teenager, your body WILL change. It’s inevitable.

So how to feel good about your body? Ugh. This is a difficult, almost impossible question, but it starts with accepting yourself as you are and ignoring judgment from others. Take comfort in the fact that every other teenager, whether they show it or not, is experiencing some level of discomfort as well.

Here are some pieces of medical advice that may help you on your journey toward body-love and acceptance:

1. Change what you can (or what you want to). Acne really got you down? We can fix that. All you have to do is ask.

2. Accept (and embrace) what you can’t. Shorter than the other guys in your class? Darn. But shorter people actually tend to be more physically agile, making them better at things like martial arts and skiing.

3. Focus on the greatness within you. Are you a good listener? Class clown? Talented artist? Natural chef? Kind? Good at math? Good at science? These are all things that should be valued and celebrated.

4. Get rid of the bad. This might mean asking your parents to stop commenting on the food that you eat or telling your doctor that it upsets you to discuss weight and that you would prefer not to talk about it. You might need to unfollow that skinny model or body builder on Instagram if you find that it only gets you down, but take ownership of you. You get to set your own boundaries when it comes to loving your body.

5. Your body is your vessel, so treat it with love and care. Fuel it with the nutrients you need to  achieve your athletic goals. Let it rest with 8-10 hours of sleep every night. Buckle up. Wear a helmet. Show your body that you appreciate it.

6. Remember, your mind is a part of your body and is also subject to the changes of puberty. Don’t ignore it if it’s asking for help.