Mental Health and Body Image
How young people think and feel about their bodies can have a huge impact on their wellbeing.
At Beezee, we’re very aware of how body image can impact mental health, particularly in young people. So, what can you do to support your children’s mental health and body image? Here are some practical tips from our family nutritionists:
1. Create a safe space
Being open with your children will show them that it’s healthy to talk about mental health and body image. Only 38 per cent of parents* said they felt confident doing so, but it can make a real difference.
2. Encourage a healthy lifestyle
Instead of focusing on weight, concentrate on building healthy habits with your children. Encourage them to eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep and engage in regular physical activity, like sports or playing.
3. Tell your child why they are special
Avoid negative comments about body shapes and sizes. Instead, focus on complimenting positive attributes which have nothing to do with physical appearance, like “You are so clever” or “You are a kind person”.
4. Be a positive role model
Be a role model for your children by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly and avoiding crash diets or extreme exercise routines. Eating well should be about healthy habits, not losing weight.
5. Practice “everything in moderation”
Try not to label food as good or bad, all food is fine to eat in moderation. Teach your children to find a healthy balance where they are full, energised and happy at the same time.
6. Limit social media
The NHS recommends that screen time is limited to two hours per day, so it’s worth considering how much your children use their devices. A study also found that 87% of young people had been negatively affected by social media in relation to body
7. Teach media literacy
Help your children understand that what they see in the media is often not “real” and that everyone’s body is unique, regardless of mixed messages online. It’s totally normal to look different to other people.
8. Encourage physical activity
Try becoming more active as a family – focusing on fun rather than exercise. Being active not only releases feel good hormones, but is also a reminder of the amazing things our bodies can do.
9. Seek professional advice
If you are concerned about your child’s mental wellbeing, see a professional. This can include counselling or therapy with a mental health professional who specialises in body image issues.
For more information on mental health and body image, check out these resources:
- The National Eating Disorders Association
- The Body Image Movement
- The Body Positive
- The Mental Health Foundation