Could your teenager have a body image issue?
Adolescence is that phase of life when teenagers go through challenging changes, both on the physical and psychological fronts. Body image issue is just one of those challenges that hits during this critical juncture of life, leading to depression, eating disorders and low self-esteem among other psycho-social troubles. But where does all of it stem from? Well, there could many factors responsible for body image issues in teenagers including home and school environment, exposure to commercials and unrealistic expectations set by social media. Reams of research also suggest that mothers play a significant role in developing their daughter’s body image. If you see your teenager struggling with body image issues, here are some steps that you need to take to help her.
Spot body image issues
This is the first step towards helping your child with body image issues. Most of us, especially teenagers, do not like certain aspects of the way we look which is normal. However, there is a difference between a mild dislike and a fixation. Here are the red flags to watch out for:
- Harsh self-criticism
- Frequent comparison with others
- Obsession with body weight and shape
- Unexplained mood swings
- Lack of energy and appetite
- Avoiding food or binge eating
- Withdrawing from friends and family
Start a conversation
If you observe any of these symptoms then your teenager probably needs help. Consider initiating a conversation with him. You need to be cautious while broaching the topic as body image problem is a very sensitive issue. The primary aim of this conversation should helping your adolescent open up to you about his problems. So, be a patient listener, pay attention and avoid being dismissive. Try to answer his questions in an age-appropriate manner and assure him that you are always there for him.
Set a positive example
If your adolescent is suffering from body image issues, then you have to make special efforts to ensure that you don’t project a negative image about your own or someone else’s physique. Also, help your teenager, especially a girl, get comfortable with the changes in her developing body while trying to shift the focus from external beauty to other qualities.
Promote healthy eating habits
Healthy food habits go a long way in helping kids get rid of their body image issues. Do not label any food as good or bad, healthy or unhealthy. Instead, discuss with them about foods which can be had anytime and the ones that can be eaten in small portions and less often without marking anything as a no-no. Also, it’s important to share with children about how the digestive system functions, introduce them to the concepts of portion control and appropriate mealtimes. All these will nudge them towards mindful eating and help them maintain healthy body weight.
Get professional help
Sometimes it becomes difficult to cope with body image issues, despite family support. That’s when you should consider getting professional help. Encourage your teenager to jot down what he needs to share with therapist. Here are some important pointers to start with:
- The first time she realised that she has body image issues
- How she feels about her body
- How these thoughts impact her behaviour
- How it affects her everyday life