The term body image refers to how a person sees their own body and how they believe others might see them. It involves how they perceive their body (which can often be distorted like seeing oneself as large when in reality the person might even be too skinny, how they think about it and how they feel about their body such as shame, frustration, or pride). Strong body image concerns can lead to behaviour like body checking which can become very compulsive.

Sadly, 60% of the adult population report negative body image and the percentage is higher in adolescents and some minority groups.

In treatment, the focus is on helping people develop a more balanced and compassionate view of their body. This involves learning to reduce negative thoughts and behaviours, increase body acceptance, and understand that self-worth is not based on appearance.

NZEDC regularly runs a treatment group ‘The Body Project’, a modified version of an evidence-based prevention intervention.