How AI-Generated Photos Are Impacting Our Self-Image, Mental Health, and Faith

**How AI Photos Are Messing With Our Brains—and Hearts**

*Compared to Who? | Hosted by Heather Creekmore*

Listen to this episode of the podcast, episode 493 here: https://omny.fm/shows/compared-to-who/how-ai-generated-photos-impact-body-image-comparison-and-faith-understanding-the-dangers-of-altered-images

Have you ever scrolled through your social feed and caught a glimpse of a photo so flawless you wondered, “Is that even real?” If you’ve ever doubted your own reflection after seeing one of these images, you’re not alone.

On this episode of Compared to Who?, Heather Creekmore takes us on an eye-opening journey through the dizzying new world of AI-generated images and their impact on our mental, emotional, and even spiritual well-being. This isn't just about Instagram filters or classic Photoshop tricks anymore—the game has changed.

### From Photoshop to AI: A Whole New Playing Field

Remember when altered images were reserved for models or tech-savvy folks with access to pricey software? Those days are gone. [Heather Creekmore](/speakers/A) shares how she stumbled into the AI photo world when searching for quicker ways to create headshots for her content and thumbnails. What started as an innocent attempt to save time turned into a wild ride filled with hilarious, unnerving, and sometimes downright triggering AI-generated images of herself.

With just a handful of uploaded photos, AI programs churned out pictures “of her” in all kinds of situations: jaw-droppingly slim, wearing sparkly outfits she’d never put on, and even giving a TED Talk—something she’s never actually done. The technology can make you look flawless or like a totally different person in seconds.

### Our Brains Can’t Tell the Difference

Here’s the kicker: even though most of us intellectually know these images aren’t real, our brains process them as if they are. Heather dives into the neuroscience—explaining that visuals are processed 60,000 times faster than text. Our emotional responses, like feeling inadequate or inspired, are triggered before our logical mind can remind us, “This is fake.”

And if you struggle with body image, seeing repeated images of “ideal” bodies can launch your brain into stress mode. You quickly end up comparing your normal self to these manufactured “perfections,” which can lead to feelings of shame and not measuring up.

Can you tell the below images are ALL fake?

### The (Spiritual) Dangers of the “Ideal Image”

It gets even deeper. The new wave of AI technology lets us create images of ourselves that don’t just inspire us—they become new idols. Heather reflects on this disturbing phenomenon: instead of just imagining the “best” version of ourselves, AI lets us see it, making it even easier to worship an image *of ourselves* over the God who made us.

She unpacks the spiritual side: When we covet a body, a face, or a life fashioned from pixels and artificial intelligence, we’re being subtly pulled towards idolatry. The longing to be someone else is not what God wants for us. We are “fearfully and wonderfully made”—not AI-created, not manufactured.

### Practical Steps to Fight Back

What’s the solution? Heather offers some practical and spiritually grounded advice:

- **Treat Social Scrolling Like Entering Fiction Land:** Before you scroll, remind yourself: “I’m about to enter a world of fiction.” Pray for discernment to see what’s true and protect your heart against comparison.
- **Limit Social Media Time:** Set screen time boundaries (she recommends 30 minutes a day or less) and carefully curate your feed—block, unfollow, and report anything that tempts you into comparison.
- **Pray and Process When Triggered:** If you find yourself obsessed with an ideal image or feeling envious, stop and ask God to reveal what you’re truly seeking. Challenge the lies you believe about the lives and bodies of others.
- **Remember the Temporary Nature of Our Bodies:** Don’t remodel your “hotel room.” Our bodies are temporary, and our true worth comes from being image bearers of God, not manufacturers of perfection.

### Don’t Let AI Steal Your Joy

Above all, don’t let AI-generated “perfection” steal the joy of living fully in the unique, beautifully designed body God gave you. The more we chase impossible standards, the more we miss out on steadfast love and true purpose.

So next time you’re tempted to compare yourself to an AI-enhanced reflection—yours or someone else’s—take a deep breath, step away from the screen, and remember: you were created on purpose, with purpose. Not a single pixel or filter necessary.

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**Want more on breaking free from body image obsession?** Check out the 40 Day Body Image Journey and stay tuned for more honest, hope-filled conversations on *Compared to Who?*