Body Image, Eating Disorders, and Teenagers
Negative body image, body dissatisfaction, and eating disorders can have serious effects on a teenager’s mental, emotional, and physical health. Adolescence is a time of rapid physical changes and heightened social pressures, which can make teens particularly vulnerable to concerns about appearance and weight. I give Counselling Body Image & Eating Disorders
Recognising the signs early and providing appropriate support is crucial for preventing long-term health problems and improving well-being.
Signs and Causes of Body Image Issues and Eating Disorders
Body image issues and eating disorders may arise due to a combination of social, psychological, and biological factors, including:
- Peer and Media Pressure – unrealistic beauty standards and comparison with others
- Low Self-Esteem – lack of confidence and self-worth
- Bullying or Teasing – negative comments about appearance
- Stress and Anxiety – using food or body control as a coping mechanism
- Genetic or Biological Factors – predisposition to certain eating behaviours
- Family Pressure – emphasis on weight, diet, or appearance
Signs to watch for include changes in eating habits, excessive concern about weight, frequent body checking, withdrawal from social activities, or physical health issues like fatigue or weight fluctuations.
How Counselling Helps Teenagers with Body Image and Eating Disorders
Professional counselling provides teenagers with a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment to explore feelings about their body, food, and self-esteem. Counselling helps teens develop healthy coping strategies, improve self-worth, and address underlying emotional or psychological factors contributing to negative body image or disordered eating.
Benefits of Counselling for Body Image and Eating Disorders
- Promoting a Healthy Self-Image – building self-esteem and body confidence
- Addressing Emotional Triggers – exploring stress, anxiety, or trauma linked to eating behaviours
- Developing Healthy Coping Strategies – managing emotions without turning to harmful eating habits
- Improving Relationship with Food – fostering balanced eating and nutrition habits
- Preventing Long-Term Health Issues – supporting mental, emotional, and physical well-being
- Providing a Safe Space for Expression – allowing teens to discuss body image concerns without judgment
Counselling Approaches We Use
Our adolescent-focused approaches include:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – identifying unhelpful thought patterns and replacing them with healthier perspectives
- Solution-Focused Therapy – helping teens set achievable goals for self-esteem and eating behaviours
- Mindfulness & Emotional Regulation Techniques – supporting awareness and self-control around food and body image
- Family Therapy – involving caregivers to provide guidance, support, and a healthy home environment
Support for Teens Struggling with Body Image Across the UK
With early support, teenagers can develop a positive body image, overcome unhealthy eating patterns, and thrive emotionally, socially, and physically.
If your teenager is struggling with body image or an eating disorder, our teenage counselling services are available across the UK, both in-person and online. Contact us today for a confidential session.