Understanding Body Image: Support and Self Care

Welcome to part three of Understanding Body Image! In this final part, we’re going to explore different therapeutic techniques, exercises and self-care activities which can help you with your body image. We hope you’ll find some of the activities and actions within this guide that can help you to build a personal ‘Wellbeing Toolkit’ to help you to cope and manage your mental health.

If you haven’t already, please have a read through ‘The Basics‘ and ‘Causes and Consequences‘. These will help you define body image and understand what can influence it.

In all of our guides, you won’t find any eating disorder labels, stereotypes or criteria here. No matter who you are, and regardless of whether you have an eating disorder diagnosis, this resource has been designed for you.

To download, click the image below.

This resource should not be used to replace in-person, or professional support. The intentions behind these guides were to inform, educate and inspire our service users and others to be more compassionate and help bring an end the stigma around body image. We hope that by reading this information provided, you will feel more comfortable with your body and be able to thoughtfully communicate how you are feeling, with the knowledge and tools to seek the necessary support for your difficulties.

As with all First Steps ED services, resources and projects, our aim is to offer hope, opportunity and choices to lives affected by eating difficulties and disorders. The content featured here is not intended to be a substitute for professional or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

First Steps ED is not a crisis line. If you need additional support, please contact any of the following organisations available 24/7: NHS 111 service is for when someone needs medical help fast but it’s not a 999 emergency. The Samaritans provide confidential emotional support to those experiencing despair, distress or suicidal feelings. Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org