Psychologist Offers Expert Tips for Coping with Bathing Suit Season

White Plains, NY - May 2025 - Summer is almost here, and for many people that means fun in the sun, sand, and surf (or pool) – but not everyone is eager to put on a bathing suit. “Swimsuit anxiety” is common among many people, especially women and teen girls. The act of wearing a bathing suit often triggers instant comparisons to others, magnifying insecurities.

Heather Rosen, PhD is a psychologist with Psychology Partners Group, a comprehensive mental health practice with locations in Chappaqua, NY and White Plains, NY. Dr. Rosen is a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in the evaluation and treatment of eating disorders in adolescents and young adults.

Dr. Rosen often hears people say they want to slim down or tone up for the summer. While on the surface, these types of statements may seem innocuous, they can often lead to disordered eating.

“There’s been a perception in society that you must change yourself to fit a certain mold before you can enjoy your life in a swimsuit. This is a harmful narrative—and one that deserves to be challenged,” said Dr. Rosen.

Dr. Rosen offers the following tips to make this swimsuit season a more pleasant one:

• Practice body neutrality: Instead of striving to “love” every part of your body—an ideal that can feel unattainable for many—a more helpful approach may be to practice body neutrality. This involves respecting your body for what it does rather than how it looks. Focus on the function of your body: it allows you to swim, laugh, move, and connect with others. When we shift our mindset from appearance to ability, we open ourselves to joy and connection—without the burden of constant self-judgment.
• You don’t have to look “perfect” in a swimsuit to be present at summer events. Focus on showing up and the emotional connections and memories you’re making, rather than what you look like.
• Curate your social media feed if you’re active on social media platforms. If swimsuit season triggers anxiety, filter out content like “Get a bikini body” and instead follow creators and communities that celebrate body diversity and realistic portrayals of health.
• Set boundaries in real life. If someone comments on your body—no matter how well-meaning—you have the right to say: “I’m uncomfortable when you comment on my body. I’d prefer if you shared what you appreciate about me as a person.” Compliments can still be given (and received), but shifting them toward style choices or personal qualities is more empowering.
• Remember, the goal is not to fix yourself. It’s to wear something that allows you to participate in the moment. Choose a swimsuit (or cover-up or whatever feels right) that makes you comfortable enough to enjoy the event. There are more styles than ever to choose from. Just because someone else wears a certain kind of swimsuit doesn’t mean you have to. Choose something that makes you feel good and allows you do what you want to do—whether that’s chasing after a child, swimming laps, or just looking chic while lounging.

Learning to respect and accept your body can be a long journey, especially in a culture that idealizes thinness. But small shifts—like reframing how you think about swimsuits, setting boundaries, and celebrating what your body allows you to do—can create space for healing, confidence, and joy this summer and beyond.