In Australia and indeed the world, it has become commonplace for young people to feel increasingly dissatisfied with their bodies. The fashion industry has for years been the subject of much controversy regarding unrealistic body expectations, but in this new era of Instagram models and social celebrities, young people are being exposed to impossible beauty standards earlier and earlier.
WHAT IS BODY IMAGE?
Body image is how a person views, feels and thinks about their physical appearance. Often, people will only focus on a small section of this, fixating on particular issues they see as imperfections.
In Australia, many young adults struggle with body image issues, often overestimating their weight, or muscular appearance. When these concerns begin to affect happiness, personality or dictate activity, it becomes what is known as a Body Image Disorder.
A Body Image Disorder is the name given when the expectation of how you want your body to look doesn’t match up with reality. Outside influences can set impossible standards for you to achieve and the quest to be thinner, taller or more angular can often develop into high-level eating disorders, depression, and low self-esteem.
Here is a graphic from BeyondBlue detailing the potential symptoms of poor body image.
(Graphic via YouthBeyondBlue.com)
If you have been feeling as though your body image is putting your happiness at stake, it may be time to consult a therapist or GP. Letting your concerns develop into obsessions will not allow you to effectively manage your personal happiness or develop meaningful relationships with others.
Start thinking about the role that body image and self-worth plays in your life. Are you at all concerned about your mental state?
In the meantime, take a look at this infographic from The Body Image Center for more information on who is affected.
Infographic via TheBodyImageCenter.com
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