Help Self image
As our bodies develop and we grow up, the changes can feel strange. We can feel pressure from our friends, family and social media – to look or be a certain way. It is normal to like some bits of the way we look and not other bits.
Are you worried that you spend too much time thinking about how you look? It can be frustrating that you can change some things, like your hair cut – but other bits you can’t.
Social media, TV and magazines can make us compare ourselves to others and feel under pressure to look a certain way. Often the images we see that look ‘perfect’ aren’t even real, and have been altered digitally.
Keeping active and healthy eating are good for your mind and body, but worrying too much about your body shape, or trying to control it through lots of exercise and changes to your diet can do more harm than good.
It may help to find sports or exercise that helps you focus on your feelings, rather than what you look like. From yoga to boxing, exercise can help you ground yourself and appreciate what your body can do!
Food is fuel, but also something that you can enjoy. Finding comfort meals or food that excites you, can help create a better relationship around food. Also, finding people that look like you, or you can relate to in real life and online can help you accept your own body. A positive mental image of who you are is also really important for your overall health.
It is difficult to feel like you aren’t in control of your own body. Your body is consistently changing as you grow. It is important to remember that each version of you is worthy of love and care.
Some things you might find useful
This Girl Can
National campaign to inspire girls and women to get active, no matter how well they do it, how they look or even how red their face gets!
This Girl Can
Be Body Positive
BeBodyPositive (NHS) courses + modules that explore eating and self image.
Go to site
Worried about an eating disorder?
Eating disorders are not just about food – they can be a way of coping or feeling in control. Find out more here.
Eating disorders
MindMate blog: Your body is calling
…are you listening?
Greta discusses the connections between the mind and the body
Go to blog
Blog: Fear of rejection
Raeesa discusses her experience with the fear of rejection and practicing self-compassion.
Go to part one of blog
My Body
Read our advice below for help and support dealing with positive self image and looking after your body.
My BodyAre you a parent or carer?
If you’re looking for more information to support a young person you care for with their mental health, visit our parent and carers page.
