Are you shorter than you’d like to be? Do you often feel conscious about your height? Don’t beat yourself up about this. It’s natural to feel self-conscious about being short. After all, there are so many factors that can increase your anxiety about it. And, being tall was a beauty standard for so long. However, the good news is that the conventions of beauty are changing.

Taller statures were also often linked to things like an increase in social status. However, this relates to the way that height issues can affect mental health. A lot of research focuses on how being shorter can affect social anxiety and emotional health. Outlets like Psychology Today often report a relationship between self-esteem and height. Your mental health will improve if you overcome these self-esteem issues. Read on to find out how to start to do so.

Find comfort in fashion.

A quick first step is to focus on fashion to boost your self-esteem. And, it’s not just about looking good. Small changes in attire can do wonders for your mental health problems as well. Short women often think they have to avoid things like maxi dresses and midi skirts. However, this isn’t always true. You will feel your best if you select the right styles.

Pick a maxi dress with a split to make your legs appear longer. Of course, it can be hard to find a maxi dress that doesn’t trail under your heels. Look for petite maxi dresses made for shorter women. The readymade petite length will give you a better fit than altered dresses. If you choose a midi skirt, pair it with dainty shoes instead of chunky ones. Try flared jeans, slim leg trousers, and off-shoulder dresses. Pick a solid color instead of a busy print. The right clothing will help you look taller. It will also improve your mental health—you will feel more confident in the right outfit.

Focus on the positives.

Are you always thinking about the disadvantages of being short? How about thinking about the advantages instead? Yes, there are advantages to being short. You may have trouble reaching the top shelf. However, you may be less prone to injuries like hip fractures. Shorter people may also live longer than their taller counterparts. Other advantages include a lower risk of blood clots and heatstroke.

Of course, there are good and bad sides to everything. The important thing is to find what makes you feel better about yourself. You can even count small wins. Be grateful you can fit into smaller spaces, or walk under things without hitting your head. Whatever you choose, focus on the positives more than the negatives. It will help boost your mental health and help you become less self-conscious.

Talk to someone.

Do you get panic attacks when you think about your height? Do you have social anxiety around tall people? Do you suffer from mood disorders? First, remember there’s no need to feel ashamed about any of this. It’s normal for your mental health to suffer because of your height. There’s a direct relationship between self-esteem and your height. And, it can be tough to manage this on your own. You can try to confide in a family member who is a good listener. However, your best bet is to get professional help.

Good mental health care is essential for everyone. And, it’s especially crucial if your self-esteem is affecting your daily life. You can find a clinical social worker or therapist to help you. They will help with group therapy or individual counseling. You can also opt for rational emotive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and cognitive behavior therapy. If you’re the only short person in your family, you could benefit from family therapy. A family therapist can hold group therapy sessions with your family members. Remember that height-related relationship issues are not uncommon. You can visit a psychologist or a good therapist for couples therapy sessions.

It’s crucial to find the right therapist to boost your mental health. Even if you pick a reputable private practice, don’t commit to a long-term plan. Judge by the first session so that you can choose the best therapist for your needs. You can also search for the right therapist online. Remember to make your search specific. For example, if you’re looking for the best therapists in NYC, remember to type in your exact location. Search through online reviews and make sure they have extensive experience. Call their office to sample their customer service. Also, ask your insurance provider if you’re covered to see a psychologist. If not, look for the most affordable therapy.