I always say: "Lipoedema is so much more than just a physical condition" - it is an enormous burden that can greatly affect self-image and self-confidence. Women with lipoedema often feel uncomfortable in their own bodies and would like to change that. The fact that lipoedema is resistant to diet and exercise makes it even worse.

The societal ideal of beauty, which often favors slim, symmetrical bodies, puts even more pressure on many. Just when shopping, we are constantly reminded that we do not fit into the clothes we would like to wear and buy. The pants are too tight at the lipoedema areas, and the arms (which are often affected by lipoedema) also make it difficult to buy clothes.

Added to this are well-meaning comments from friends, relatives, and outsiders who don't know any better and say: "Oh, it doesn't look that bad," or "doesn't it really go away?" Well-intentioned, yet always very distressing.

All these everyday experiences burden us and can significantly affect our self-esteem. We develop shame, avoid social contacts, and don't go to the outdoor pool to avoid unpleasant situations and feelings.

Not infrequently, this leads to psychological problems and adds to the burden of lipedema.

Even though life with lipedema is often difficult, there are ways to boost self-confidence and self-esteem, thereby promoting mental health.

Here are some tips that helped me:

Learning Self-Acceptance: The first step to strengthening self-esteem is accepting your own body. Accepting lipedema and that we now have it. This means learning to accept your body as it is. To move more often from lack to abundance. The thought that my legs, despite lipedema, allow me to play with my child helped me a lot. Here, gratitude prevails, and you immediately feel different. Of course, I had to practice this. Start slowly, for example, with what you like about yourself and focus on that.

You can practice this every day and find new things about yourself that you like – despite lipedema.

Exchange with others affected: Contact with other women with lipedema can be incredibly supportive. In my support group or in online communities, you find understanding, exchange, and valuable tips that help to better cope with the disease. The feeling of not being alone boosts self-confidence!

If you are interested in my support group "Lipödem Gemeinschaft" and would like to exchange with others affected, feel free to check out my Instagram profile (Taliamenzel) in the "SHG" highlight and send me a private message.

Psychological Support: Professional help from a therapist can assist you with lipedema in managing the psychological and physical burdens (you don't have to do it alone) and it strengthens your self-confidence.

Self-care: Regular exercise that you enjoy and that is good for you can not only alleviate the physical symptoms of lipedema but also improve your mental well-being. I love yoga and Pilates. But swimming or gentle stretching exercises are also particularly relaxing and good for you and your psyche. Don't forget to take time for yourself, as this often gets overlooked in everyday life. Why not book yourself a massage again or have a cozy evening with your favorite series.

What nice thing would you like to do for yourself today?

We are more than just our lipedema!

All the best for you,

Talia