Relationships - Positive body image
Why is it important to feel good about myself?
It is difficult to feel good about someone else or about being in a relationship with someone else if you don’t feel good about yourself first. People come in all shapes and sizes, colours and ethnicities. Trying to change the way you look – to be thinner, to dress or behave in a certain way – can be bad for your physical and mental health. You can become unwell by eating very little or exercising a lot to try and become thin. And, trying and failing to look like someone else can cause you to feel bad about yourself.
Being healthy means you are able to achieve your potential. Being healthy also means that your body is able to fight off illness and develop normally.
What is self-esteem?
Self-esteem is about how you value yourself. This can affect you in many ways, how well you do in life, how happy you are and who you make friends with. A person with high self-esteem often finds it easier to make friends and has plenty of confidence making them more in control of their behaviour.
For many teenagers, body image is closely related to self-esteem. This is because as we change and develop we compare ourselves more to others. The secret though is to start accepting yourself for you who are. Focus on what makes you feel good and what friends you can develop relationships with. Remember, we’re all different and this is what makes us interesting.
- Work on the skills you have
- Enjoy your growing independence
- Challenge yourself physically and mentally
- Know what makes you feel good
- Eat well
- Exercise
- Sleep
For further information about healthy eating and lifestyle go to:
