For example, pretend the insult was actually a compliment. Say something like, “Wow! Thank you so much for noticing. I really appreciate it. “[1] X Research source
Be careful, however, not to make comments that are too biting, especially if you’re not in a place where you feel safe. You don’t want to end up putting your safety at risk.
For example, say you’re in ninth grade and someone in your class says something like, “You could really use to lose about 30 pounds. " Respond with something like, “Wow! I can’t believe you’ve been through medical school and you’re only 14. Because only a doctor could possibly know how much weight I need to lose. "
If someone makes a rude comment about your weight, pretend like you did not hear it. If they continue to make rude comments, simply leave the room. If you need to cry after ignoring someone, that’s okay. It’s normal to feel bad if someone hurts your feelings. While you can ignore a bully in the moment, let your feelings out later if necessary.
Be very frank. Turn to the person and say something like, “There is nothing funny about what you said. It’s extremely rude to comment on my weight and I do not appreciate it. " You can also turn it around on them with a piece of solid advice, “Cutting me down to increase your self-esteem is not healthy. Perhaps you should find another way to address those issues. " You can also ask the person questions about their behavior. For example, “Why do you feel the need to put down my body? What good does that do for you?”
Say something like, “I appreciate your concern, but my health is between me and my doctor. If I ever wanted diet or nutrition advice, that’s who I would ask. " If the person persists, say something like, “You know, this really is not an appropriate conversation and I don’t appreciate it. "
Let the person know what kind of behavior you will not tolerate in your relationship. For example, say something like, “Commenting on my weight is not okay and I’m not going to put up with it. I especially will not tolerate being called names, like fat. " Remind the person of your boundaries as necessary as time goes on. For example, if the person makes a comment about your weight again, say something like, “We talked about this. Those comments are not appreciated. "
Yelling at the person or calling them names in return is unlikely to resolve the situation. Try to keep your cool, even if you’re upset.
Find a trusted friend or family member to vent to. Try making plans to do something fun, like see a movie, with friends if you’re reeling from the comment. Choose someone who’s empathetic and a good listener.
Try making a list. Write down every nice thing anyone has ever said to you. Refer to that instead of focusing on the negative comment about your weight.
If the offender is a family member, this can be difficult. If your dad, for example, consistently makes comments about your weight, it may be hard to stay away from him. However, you can take a short break from the negative situation. You could excuse yourself and go to your room for a few minutes if your dad makes a comment about your weight.
