Hi there,

Thanks for reaching out to Ask Robyn with your question. Body image concerns are very common during adolescence, as teenagers often go through periods of self-exploration and self-consciousness. In a world full of unrealistic and hard-to-attain beauty standards promoted by social media and advertising, it’s no wonder many children and teenagers feel insecure about their appearance. As a parent, it’s essential to support your teen in developing a healthy and positive relationship with their body.

Start by creating a space for open communication. Let your teen know that it’s okay to feel uncertain about their body and that they can talk to you without fear of judgment. You could begin a conversation by saying something like, “I’ve noticed you seem a little down about your appearance lately. Can we talk about how you’re feeling?” By opening the door to dialogue, you create a safe space for your teen to share their insecurities.

Shift the focus by emphasising the importance of health and well-being over appearance. Encourage your teen to value what their body can do rather than how it looks. You might talk about how engaging in healthy activities they enjoy—such as yoga, dance, or sports—can help them feel strong and energised.

If your teen is severely struggling with body image issues or engaging in unhealthy habits like restrictive dieting or excessive exercise, seeking professional support can be helpful. At the ISPCC, we offer a free guided Digital Mental Health Programme. Based on the proven principles of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness, this programme may help address underlying issues such as anxiety or low self-esteem, which can contribute to a negative body image.

You may also find it helpful to explore some of the articles on our Parenting Hub, which provide tips on talking to young people about their changing bodies and promoting a positive body image.

In addition, Childline offers 24/7 support for young people who may be struggling with self-image or feeling overwhelmed. Talking to someone who understands can make a big difference.

Finally, be mindful of how you speak about your own body around your teen. As a parent, your attitudes and behaviours influence how they see themselves. Try to model positive body image by appreciating your own body and avoiding negative self-talk.

If you’d like to discuss this further, the ISPCC’s Support Line service can be contacted by email at [email protected] or by phone at 01 522 4300, available Monday to Friday from 9 am to 1 pm.

Best wishes,

Robyn