Body Image Issues in Australia

BODY IMAGE Guys have body image Your body image is made up of the thoughts and feelings that result from how you perceive your physical self. It can be positive or negative. issues too. One third of males want to be thinner and one third want to be Poor body image can lead to depression, anxiety, alcohol and other drug abuse and bulkier. Most high school girls in Australia wish they were thinner and body image is their number one concern. More than 1 in 5 eating disorders. young men say body image is their I number one concern Some warning signs that you or someone you know might have body image issues: Of Australian high school girls: Tips for better body image: Distorted eating habits 76% Say something positive about your body every day wish they were thinner Obsession with weight • Aim to get healthier rather than lose weight and exercise 50% Being continually self-critical · Focus on yourself as a person, not just how you look have tried to lose weight • Stop making unkind comments Constantly comparing body size about other bodies 16% • Choose media that makes you are happy with their body weight feel better, not worse headspace .org.au/bodyimage References - all at http://www.headspace.org.au/what-works/research-information/depression#5A For more information go to headspace.org.au/bodyimage National Youth Mental Health Foundation