All about body image

Body image is what you see when you look in the mirror or picture yourself in your mind.

It’s what you see and believe when it comes to your appearance and how you feel about your body. It is something that lots of people worry about, especially teenagers and young adults.

For example, you might worry about your shape or size, how you look in certain clothes or the condition of your skin. You may also worry about how you feel in your body or how you think you appear to other people.

There are several reasons someone might become concerned about body image. Most of us will start to pay attention to messages about appearance from a young age. These messages might come from our friends, family members or social media and form an idea in our minds about how we ‘should’ look.

Although it may be common to worry about body image, too much worry can get in the way and stop you enjoying your life. Body image concerns can sometimes lead to low mood and increased anxiety.

How to get help

If you have any more questions on this area or would like to speak to somebody about this topic, have a look at the links or search for your local services in the blue box below. Alternatively you can always contact your school nurse.

• w: Health for Teens - 6 top tips for maintaining a healthy body image
  
• w: CAMHS - Body Image and Self-Esteem
  
• w: The Mix - Body Image