Issues with body image can often arise out of something a lot deeper. Sometimes people try and change things on the outside because of tough personal issues such as stress, a difficult home life, or another crisis.
Changes such as dieting, overeating, constant exercise or taking drugs don't actually fix the deeper problem. This stuff can quickly get out of hand and muck around with your moods, your abilities and your relationships. It only adds to any existing problems.
If any of these situations sound familiar, you need to take action - for yourself or for a friend in need. Nobody has to go it alone. There are heaps of information sources, qualified professionals and support groups to tap into.
Who can help?
Use the following resources as a starting point to help you find the body image help you need. All of the links below open in a new window.
Better Health Channel
This vast resource has detailed information on body image issues, including body image fact sheets for men and for women as well as advice on healthy weight management.
Queen Victoria Women's Centre
The Centre's Infohub has a range of body image info, resources and heaps of ideas to get involved.
The Butterfly Foundation
The Foundation helps sufferers of eating disorders and supports education programs. The help page lists support services in each state and has links to other websites about eating disorders.
Eating Disorders Foundation of Victoria
Information about eating disorders, why diets don't work, what to do if you think you have an eating disorder, and recovery stories.
Reach Out
Information for young people, including a fact sheet about body image.
Somazone
Post questions and get answers on health and body image. A site developed for young people, by young people, focusing on health issues.
Victorian Centre of Excellence in Eating Disorders (CEED)
Information about eating disorders including personal stories, facts and findings and a list of resources for further information.
