When Your Teen Is Hard on Their Own Body
Comments like “I look disgusting” or “I hate how I look” can be painful to hear from your teen. Body image struggles are common in adolescence, especially with constant comparison on social media. Your response can either add pressure—or offer safety.
How Body Image Struggles Show Up
Teens might avoid photos, change clothes repeatedly, obsess over mirrors, compare themselves to others online, or talk about dieting and workouts in extreme ways. Sometimes they joke about their body to hide real pain.
What Teens Need to Hear from You
Focus less on appearance and more on who they are. You might say, “I care far more about your kindness, humor, and heart than about your size or shape.” Avoid criticizing your own body in front of them; they are listening.
Shifting the Conversation
Talk about what bodies can do—move, hug, laugh, create—not just how they look. Encourage balanced eating, rest, and movement as ways to care for their body, not punish it.
When to Get Extra Support
If body image worries lead to severe dieting, over-exercising, bingeing, purging, or intense distress, it may be time to seek help from a counselor, dietitian, or doctor. Early support can prevent deeper problems from developing.
Need more help right now?
If you or your teen is in immediate danger, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
If you are in crisis or worried about someone you love, you can reach out for free, confidential support:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988, or chat online 24/7
- NAMI Utah – Education, classes, and support groups for families
- SafeUT App – A free, confidential chat and tip line for Utah youth and families
- Local mental health providers – Therapists, counselors, and medical professionals in your area
This website is for general education only and is not a crisis or emergency service, and it does not provide diagnosis or treatment. You don't have to go through this alone—reaching out for help is a strong and hopeful step.
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