Alex's Answer
I am struggling with my body image
Your Question
I have been struggling with my body image, I’ve noticed recently that my thighs are too big and my tummy isn’t flat. I ‘ve been crying a lot and wish that I could talk with someone. I think that I might have BDD (Body Dysmorphia Disorder) and I wish I could look pretty.
Answer
Hi, You are welcome to ask Alex
You are saying that you are struggling with your body image as you have recently noticed that your thighs are too fat, and your tummy is not flat. It sounds like you are feeling down as you have been crying a lot, and we are glad that you reached out to us. You also mentioned that you think you might have Body Dysmorphia Disorder.
Is there something going on for you that has you feeling this way? Sometimes we might find ourselves in situations where comments are made about our bodies and behaviours and these comments might affect how we feel about ourselves. It is important to keep in mind that people come in numerous body shapes and sizes and our bodies are our business and no one else’s. It is very important for our wellbeing to make a concerted effort to remind ourselves to avoid making comparisons between ourselves and others and to take positive steps toward enjoying the body and the life we have; remember that body image is only one part of who we are.
We would be concerned to hear that you are crying a lot. You mentioned you wished you could speak with someone, and it can be helpful to talk to people we trust about how we feel. Perhaps a parent, guardian, aunt, uncle, granny, grandad, or another adult you trust who you feel comfortable talking to could be a support. You have a right to talk to a trusted adult about how you are feeling. You have a right to get help and support and it is ok to ask for help.
In relation to the Body Dysmorphia Disorder, it would be helpful to contact a GP for the purpose of getting a proper diagnosis or perhaps rule out that possibility. There is some information available on these websites that you might find useful: www2.hse.ie/mental-health/and www.bodywhys.ie/.
Contacting Childline on our 24- hour listening phone service at 1800 66 66 66 is another option for you. We have a chat service too, though www.childline.ie (just click on the orange Live Chat button), which is open 24-hours a day 365 days a year. Please know that you do not have to be alone at this time or any time
We hope you find this information helpful.
Take care and bye for now.
Alex