Having a healthy body image means being comfortable and knowing that there is more to you than just your physical appearance. Conversely, having an unhealthy body image involves always thinking your body is unattractive. Sometimes, it can also make a person forget that they have value beyond what they look like.

Why is negative body image an issue?

Having a sustained unhealthy body image can be associated with illnesses that affect the mind and body such as body dysmorphic disorder, anorexia nervosa and binge eating. It's beneficial to be aware of negative body image and actively attempt to develop a healthier body image.

How to improve your body image

Having an unhealthy body image is bad for general wellbeing and is also incredibly time consuming. Below are a few tips for improving your body image:

1. Question media images - we are bombarded with images of unrealistic and unobtainable bodies; try not to compare yourself with them and remember that often what you see on TV and online are not true depictions of real people.
2. Try positive self talk.
3. Avoid being critical of other people's bodies - negative attitudes are contagious.