This report highlights a series of key recommendations for helping young people across Scotland achieve good body image and recognise that we are much more than what we look like.
The report from the Advisory Group on Health Body Image for Young People (co-chaired by the Mental Health Foundation) was tasked by the Scottish Government with undertaking a six-month review to understand more about body image and how it can affect young people’s mental health.
Need support?
Samaritans: If you need someone to talk to then Samaritans are available on 116 123 (UK) for free, 24/7. They are there to talk to, and listen and they won't judge or tell you what to do.
Mind: If you are looking for professional support, then Mind can help you with their Infoline. They can find information for you on what support is available in your local area. You can call them on 0300 123 3393 (UK), they are available Mon - Fri 9 am - 6 pm.
Beat: If you want to speak to a trained eating disorder helpline support worker, then you can call Beat's helpline on 0808 801 0711 (UK) they are open 365 days of the year, 12 pm - 6 pm Mon - Fri and 4 pm - 8 pm weekends and bank holidays.
CALM: If you want emotional support as a man or for a man in your life, then you can call CALM's helpline on 0800 58 58 58. It is for men in the UK who are down or have hit a wall for any reason, who need to talk or find information and support. They're open 5 pm-midnight, 365 days a year.
Maytree: If you are feeling suicidal or are having suicidal thoughts, you can contact Maytree. Maytree has a house available for people when they feel suicidal. They offer a free 4-night, 5-day stay for adults, with the opportunity to be heard in complete confidence in a caring, safe environment. You can contact them on 0207 263 7070.
Urgent professional help: If you are concerned that you are developing a mental health problem, you should seek the advice and support of your GP as a matter of priority. If you are in distress, need immediate help, and cannot see a GP, you should visit your local A&E.
Body image and mental health
Body image issues can affect all of us at any age and directly affect our mental health. However, there is still a lack of much-needed research and understanding around this.
Learn more about body image and mental health