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May 22, 2025
Understanding Body Image and How to Improve Yours
Positive Body Image
Confidence Building
Wellness and Self Care
Body image refers to the way you see, think, and feel about your body. It's influenced by your personal experiences, beliefs, and cultural environment. Many Australians, regardless of age or gender, experience challenges with their body image at different times in their lives. Having a healthy body image is important for your overall mental and physical wellbeing.
What is Body Image ?
Body image is not about what you physically look like, but rather your perception, thoughts, and feelings about your appearance. It can be positive, negative, or somewhere in between, and may fluctuate based on life experiences, societal influences, or emotional factors.
A healthy body image means:
Accepting and appreciating your natural body shape and size
Feeling comfortable and confident in your body
Understanding that appearance doesn’t determine your worth
What affects body image ?
Several factors can influence your body image, including:
Social media and advertising: Unrealistic beauty standards portrayed online and in media.
Cultural and social expectations: Society’s emphasis on appearance and weight.
Personal experiences: Comments from family, friends, or peers.
Life stages: Puberty, pregnancy, ageing, or illness can affect how you view your body.
Mental health: Conditions like depression or anxiety may negatively impact your body image.
Signs of Negative Body Image
If you have negative body image, you might:
Constantly compare yourself to others
Feel unhappy or uncomfortable about your body
Engage in unhealthy behaviours, such as extreme dieting, excessive exercise, or disordered eating
Avoid activities or situations where you feel self-conscious about your body
Regularly focus on perceived flaws or imperfections
Why Is Positive Body Image Important?
A healthy body image is crucial for both physical and mental health. It allows you to:
Develop confidence and positive self-esteem
Engage comfortably in social activities
Maintain healthier eating and exercise habits
Reduce your risk of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or eating disorders
Tips for Improving Your Body Image
Here are practical ways to develop a healthier relationship with your body:
1. Appreciate Your Body for What It Can Do
Instead of focusing solely on appearance, recognise what your body does for you every day—walking, breathing, exercising, or simply functioning.
2. Surround Yourself With Positive Influences
Follow social media accounts or engage with people who promote body positivity, diversity, and realistic images of appearance.
3. Practise Self-Care
Prioritise self-care practices that make you feel good—healthy eating, balanced exercise, adequate sleep, and relaxation.
4. Challenge Negative Thoughts
Notice negative thoughts about your body and challenge them. Replace critical thoughts with compassionate, supportive ones.
5. Talk to Someone
If you're struggling, consider talking to a trusted friend, family member, GP, or mental health professional who can offer support and guidance.
When to Seek Help
If negative body image is significantly impacting your daily life, health, or emotional wellbeing, it's important to seek professional support. Your GP can guide you to appropriate counselling services, psychological support, or resources that can help you manage these feelings effectively.
Support is Available
At HelloDR our experienced doctors provide compassionate and confidential care for issues around body image, mental health, and emotional wellbeing.
Reference: Information adapted from Healthdirect Australia – Body Image. Healthdirect is an Australian government-funded service providing reliable health information and advice.
Disclaimer: This content provides general health information only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised recommendations.
1. Appreciate Your Body for What It Can Do
Instead of focusing solely on appearance, recognise what your body does for you every day—walking, breathing, exercising, or simply functioning.
2. Surround Yourself With Positive Influences
Follow social media accounts or engage with people who promote body positivity, diversity, and realistic images of appearance.
3. Practise Self-Care
Prioritise self-care practices that make you feel good—healthy eating, balanced exercise, adequate sleep, and relaxation.
4. Challenge Negative Thoughts
Notice negative thoughts about your body and challenge them. Replace critical thoughts with compassionate, supportive ones.
5. Talk to Someone
If you're struggling, consider talking to a trusted friend, family member, GP, or mental health professional who can offer support and guidance.
When to Seek Help
If negative body image is significantly impacting your daily life, health, or emotional wellbeing, it's important to seek professional support. Your GP can guide you to appropriate counselling services, psychological support, or resources that can help you manage these feelings effectively.
Support is Available
At HelloDR our experienced doctors provide compassionate and confidential care for issues around body image, mental health, and emotional wellbeing.
Reference: Information adapted from Healthdirect Australia – Body Image. Healthdirect is an Australian government-funded service providing reliable health information and advice.
Disclaimer: This content provides general health information only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised recommendations.
Supporting Your Wellness Journey
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If your condition is an emergency, please call 000 or attend to your nearest emergency department.
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