a dancer leaning against a mirror

Understanding Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition characterized by an obsession with a perceived defect in physical appearance. “When we talk about body-image issues in dancers, we often talk about ‘I’m fat’ or ‘I don’t like my body’ as this sort of generalized thing—BDD has to be something very specific,” she explains.

4 Ways to Boost Your Body Image in the Studio

Nadine Kaslow, a psychologist who works with dancers at Atlanta Ballet, offers tips for creating a more body-positive studio experience: 1. Ditch the Mirrors. Getty Images Kaslow recommends that teachers lead class with the mirrors covered once in a while. If this isn’t possible, try taking a break from constantly assessing your reflection throughout class. […]

4 Signs You Need a Social Media Detox

Whether you’re using social media for promotional or personal purposes, it could be having a negative impact on your mental health—or your dancing. Nadine Kaslow, resident psychologist at Atlanta Ballet, tells dancers to watch out for these red flags: You spend all your free time on social media. If you find yourself on your phone […]

Experts Talk Mental Health: Four Therapists Sound Off

When Dance Magazine surveyed our readers last summer, 81 percent said the field wasn’t doing enough to support mental health. We sat down with four mental health professionals, each with more than a decade of experience working with dancers, to find out their thoughts on how mental health is being addressed in the dance community […]