Body image refers to a person’s perceptions, thoughts and feelings about their size, shape, and appearance. It encompasses both how an individual sees their own body and how they believe others perceive them.
Negative body image refers to a distorted or critical perception of one’s own body, often characterised by feelings of dissatisfaction, shame, or discomfort with one’s appearance. It can lead to harmful behaviours such as extreme dieting, excessive exercise, or even mental health issues like depression or anxiety.
Signs
Signs of negative body image can vary, but they may include:
- Constantly criticising or expressing dissatisfaction with one’s appearance.
- Engaging in excessive dieting or restrictive eating habits.
- Avoiding social situations or activities that involve showing one’s body.
- Obsessively comparing oneself to others, especially in terms of appearance.
- Feeling anxious or depressed about one’s body shape or size.
- Engaging in compulsive exercise routines to change one’s body.
- Developing unhealthy attitudes towards food, such as guilt or shame.
- Withdrawing from relationships or activities due to concerns about appearance.
These signs can manifest differently in individuals and may vary in intensity.
Treatment
- Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – This type of therapy helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns related to body image and develop healthier attitudes and behaviours.
- Body acceptance and mindfulness techniques – Practices such as mindfulness meditation can help individuals become more aware of their thoughts and feelings without judgement, fostering self-compassion and acceptance of their bodies.
- Nutritional Counselling – Working with a registered dietitian can help individuals develop a balanced approach to eating that focuses on nourishment and well-being rather than restrictive dieting.
- Support Groups – Joining a support group or participating in group therapy sessions with others who are experiencing similar struggles can provide validation, encouragement, and a sense of community.
- Education and Psychoeducation – Learning about the societal influences on body image, media literacy, and the realities of diverse body shapes and sizes can help individuals challenge unrealistic standards and develop a more realistic and compassionate view of themselves.
- Medication – In some cases, medication may be prescribed to address underlying mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety that contribute to negative body image.
- Family Therapy – For adolescents or individuals whose negative body image is influenced by family dynamics, involving family members in therapy can help address underlying issues and foster a supportive environment.
Support Services
The Bridge – Eating Disorder Service – https://www.thebridgeservice.co.uk
office@thebridgeservice.co.uk
0161 820 8010
Beat – https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk
help@beateatingdisorders.org.uk
0808 801 0677
Community Eating Disorder Service (CEDS) – https://healthyyoungmindspennine.nhs.uk/eatingdisorders
pcn-tr.ceds@nhs.net
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) – https://www.penninecare.nhs.uk/hmrcamhs
pcn-tr.camhsrochdaleadmin@nhs.net
01706 676 0000
Rochdale and District Mind – https://www.rochdalemind.org.uk
info@rochdalemind.org.uk
01706 752338
NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale Talking Therapies – https://www.thebiglifegroup.com/service/hmrtalkingtherapies
hmrtalkingtherapies@thebiglifegroup.com
01706 619020