love the body you're in with a heart

Here are some tips for helping a friend who may be struggling with negative body image and where to find support.

What is body image?

Body image describes the way that we see our physical bodies and how we imagine others see us. People with positive body image generally feel comfortable and confident in their bodies, while those with negative body image may feel ashamed, anxious or awkward about their bodies. It’s important to keep in mind that negative body image can affect anyone regardless of gender, although it may look different from person to person. Sometimes our own body image may not always align with reality, as we may view our bodies in a distorted or inaccurate way.

When someone has negative body image, they may…

  • Make negative comments about their own or someone else’s size, shape or appearance.
  • Weigh themselves often and feel upset by any changes in weight.
  • Obsess over their appearance or nitpick different aspects of their body.
  • Frequently compare themselves to others and feel their body is flawed in comparison.
  • Make ongoing efforts to change their size or shape, often through extreme eating or exercise.

How can I support a friend?

February: Body Image Awareness Month

The CU Rec Center will be hosting free events and activities in February as part of their "Love the Body You're In" campaign.

For each event you attend, you will receive a ticket, which you can enter to win prizes at the end of the month. The more tickets you collect, the better your chances!

Learn more

Overcoming negative body image can take time. Here are some ways you can support a friend who may be experiencing negative body image.

  • Be honest. Talk openly with your friend, and let them know that you’re there for them.
  • Focus on other aspects. Remind your friend that you love them for who they are beyond their physical appearance: how funny they are, how brave or smart they are, etc.
  • Set an example. Practice self-acceptance and avoid making negative comments about your own body and others’.
  • Be proactive. If you are concerned a friend might have poor body image or is showing signs of disordered eating, check out the resources below for additional information and support.
  • Hit unfollow. Social media can impact our self-esteem. If you or your friend follow accounts that are negatively impacting your body image, self-esteem or self-worth, try unfollowing them. Instead, seek out accounts that promote body positivity and self-love, like @buffsforbodypositivity or the @selfloveclubblog.

It’s important to allow your friend time to process and respond to conversations you have around body image, especially if you’re feeling concerned. Approaching your friend with compassion can go a long way.

What resources are available?

Medical Services provides on-campus medical and nutrition assessments and treatment for students struggling with issues related to eating disorders, food, weight and body image.

Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) offers a free Foods and Feelings workshop, which allows students to address disordered eating, body image challenges and other concerns related to eating disorders. This workshop is intended for students who are seeking support in navigating challenges with food and exercise or who want to learn more about resources available on and off campus. Students can also get started at CAPS by visiting walk-in hours to access additional services.

Let’s Talk is a free, confidential service available to students if you need help initiating the conversation with a friend or are looking for additional resources to help.

More information and resources related to eating disorders are also available on the National Eating Disorders Association website.

More Health & Wellness Articles