MORE children are seeking help from Childline during the summer months as they grapple with eating disorders and body image issues, according to new data released by the counselling service. Childline, operated by the NSPCC, provided over 4,000 counselling sessions to children and young people dealing with concerns about body image and eating disorders, with nearly 200 of those sessions taking place in Wales.
The figures reveal that 40% of all counselling sessions on these topics occurred between June and September, encompassing the summer period. In total, from April 2022 to March 2023, Childline delivered 4,179 counselling sessions across the UK, with 191 of them taking place in Wales.
Eating disorders and body image issues emerged as the 8th most common concerns raised by children who reached out to Childline in the 2022/23 period. The service has become a lifeline for youngsters struggling with these problems, providing them with a platform to share their worries and receive support from trained counsellors.
Childline shared some of the common themes that emerged from counselling sessions related to body image and eating disorders. Children often expressed feelings of inadequacy as they compared themselves to friends, siblings, and individuals on social media. Guilt surrounding food consumption, including guilt associated with eating certain “bad” foods or any food at all, also featured prominently. Negative comments from family members, friends, bullies, and romantic partners about their weight and physique often contributed to their body image concerns. Weight worries linked to the lockdown period, such as gaining weight due to reduced physical activity or increased stress, were additional factors that influenced their struggles. Some children canceled plans due to their body image issues, further highlighting the impact of these concerns on their daily lives.
The summer holiday period presents unique challenges for children and young people grappling with body image and their relationship with food. For some, the pressure to conform to a certain appearance intensifies as they face the prospect of wearing more revealing clothing during the warmer months. This pressure is further exacerbated by increased online activity, as many children spend more time connecting with friends and engaging with online content. Exposure to negative messages about appearance on social media can have a detrimental effect on their self-perception.
Additionally, children struggling with eating disorders may find it difficult to adjust to changes in their daily routine and eating habits during the summer break.
Kieran Lyons, Service Head of Childline, emphasized the importance of support for children during this challenging period. He urged children to reach out to Childline and assured them that they don’t have to face their worries alone. Trained counsellors are available to provide guidance and help children navigate their concerns regarding body image and eating disorders.
To support young people dealing with these issues, Childline offers several tips for parents and caregivers. They advise reminding children that their appearance is only one aspect of their identity, and their personality, achievements, and behavior are equally important. It is crucial to emphasize that images portrayed in media are often manipulated and do not reflect reality. Encouraging children to avoid comparing themselves to others and instead focus on self-acceptance and embracing their unique qualities can help build their confidence. Engaging in hobbies and activities they enjoy can also bolster their self-esteem. Additionally, Childline recommends starting each day by writing down a few things they appreciate about themselves as a means of promoting positive self-perception.
Childline provides various avenues for children to seek support, including phone counselling at 0800 1111, email communication, and one-on-one chat sessions on their website. The website also offers advice and information on body image and eating disorders, and children can engage with their peers through monitored message boards for additional support.
