Body image issues are nothing new. But, they have become exacerbated in recent years thanks to social media, photo filters, and other forms of technology driving the way young girls are “supposed” to look.
People, in general, tend to feel more judged than ever before. Even adults aren’t immune to experiencing low self-esteem due to social media or societal standards. But, it’s much worse for young girls who might spend more time online and are constantly surrounded by that “need for perfection.”
So, how can you tell if your daughter or any young girl in your life might struggle with body image issues? Knowing some of the warning signs will allow you to help them sooner. If you’re not sure what you can do to reach out and give them the support they need, keep reading!
What Are the Signs of Body Image Issues?
It’s not uncommon for young girls and teens to try to hide their body image issues. They might struggle in private without bringing things up to you directly. But, there are key warning signs you should pay attention to.
One of the biggest red flags is a preoccupation with their appearance. Are they spending more time in front of the mirror than usual? Do they constantly ask about how they look or does she scrutinize her physical appearance? Girls with body image issues may not see themselves the way the rest of the world sees them, so they become “obsessed” over their own appearance and making it better.
They might also refuse to be in pictures, or only take pictures of themselves from certain angles. When they do, they might do a lot of editing or use multiple filters to achieve their idea of perfection.
If your young girl is suddenly interested in going on a diet or working out excessively, it should be another warning sign. Extreme diets are dangerous for anyone, but especially for kids and teens who haven’t fully developed. Staying active and eating healthy is great, and something that should be encouraged. But, most people can recognize the difference between a healthy lifestyle and an obsession.
What Can You Do?
As a parent or guardian, it can be difficult to see a young person you love deal with body image issues. The most important thing is to model a healthy lifestyle, yourself.
Take care of your own body and love yourself, no matter your size, shape, or “flaws”. By showing the young girl in your life what it looks like to love your body, they’re more likely to see that it’s possible to not obsess over it. Be a self-confident family, and your daughter will pick up on that.
Additionally, you can help by guiding your daughter through different coping mechanisms. Talk to her about realistic goals and encourage her to follow her passions. Doing so will take the focus off body image and put it on more important things.
It’s a good idea to encourage a healthy lifestyle and to educate your daughter about what they can do to love their body. But, don’t obsess over it. Your focus should be on encouraging a full, well-rounded life that isn’t solely based on appearance.
It can be hard to see a young girl struggling with body image issues. Unfortunately, it’s becoming more prominent today than ever. If your daughter seems ashamed of her appearance or is struggling to look “perfect,” make sure you take action as soon as possible to support her. Don’t let those issues go, or they can lead to lifelong struggles with body image. They could even develop into an eating disorder or body image dysmorphia, which can be incredibly dangerous.
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If you or your daughter struggle with body image issues, there is hope. Through speaking with a professional, you can discover new, kinder ways to interact with yourself. Contact us to schedule an appointment. Serenity EFTC offers teen counseling in Colorado.