Body Image
Kids today are more obsessed with their body image than those in past generations.
This is partially influenced by the media and their social connectivity. Encouraging kids to have a healthy body image in childhood, can lay the foundations for good physical and mental health later in life.
A recent study highlighted that body image is one of the top three concerns for Australian youth. Over half of girls in high schools have tried to lose weight. One-third of teenage boys wanted to be thinner and another third wanted to be larger. Children need to understand that their body shape and size is not a reflection of their health or success. Parents and schools need to work together to help kids understand that everyone is born with their own ‘body-suit’.
In this edition of SchoolTV, parents will learn how to encourage their child to have a positive body image and why it is so important to their mental health.
We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this edition of SchoolTV. If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact your child’s Head of House, Year 9 Director / Head of Community or Wellbeing Support Service for further information or seek medical or professional help.
Wellbeing Support Service.
“Children today are exposed to more discussion about body image than children of previous generations. Parents should not obsess about their own weight issues in front of their children.”
- Dr Michael Carr-Gregg.
Global conflict – should I be afraid?
Global conflicts around the world can create a sense of fear and uncertainty, even among young people in Australia, a country considered to be very safe.
Many students worry about their personal safety and the safety of their families, even though Australia is far from many active conflict zones. News about wars, terrorism, and international tensions often dominates media, making it easy for young people to feel anxious about the future.
Students may fear that global conflicts could escalate and somehow reach their own country, or cause economic problems that affect their lives. The threat of terrorism, cyberattacks, or political instability can feel very real, even if these events are rare or unlikely to happen close to home. This anxiety is understandable—feeling safe is a basic human need, and constant news about violence can shake that feeling.
However, it’s important for students to know that Australia remains a very safe country with strong security measures in place. The government and law enforcement agencies work hard to protect citizens from threats. While staying informed is good, focusing too much on fear can harm mental health.
If a young person is feeling overwhelmed or distressed, they can access support through Kids Helpline, a free, confidential, and professional counselling service available 24/7. Kids Helpline offers phone, online chat, and email support to help children and young people manage their fears and anxieties. They can be reached at 1800 55 1800 or online at kidshelpline.com.au.
Talking about fears, seeking trusted information, and building resilience can help young people feel safer and more empowered in uncertain times.
The Wellbeing Support Service.