These thoughts and feelings can be influenced by many different things such as social media, TV or adverts which show us how ‘we should look’. Other factors may include comments from friends and family or clothing limited to certain body types. Lots of us are influenced by what we see every day which can impact our mental health. But everyone sees beauty differently. If you find yourself comparing your body to other people or other things you’re not alone.
We all worry about how we look at times in our lives, but if this starts to affect your everyday tasks such as getting dressed, eating or spending time with family and friends or you start to feel unable to cope, talk to your GP. They are there to listen and can point you in the direction of local services and support groups. They might even suggest specific treatment for the way you’re feeling.
Where to go for more body image help and advice:
youngminds.org.uk
childline.org.uk/