Body image and eating problems

How you might be feeling

There are lots of different feelings that come with eating problems, but these are some of the most common. The following things can be a sign of a serious eating problem that could put your health at risk.

• Over (or under) eating
• Making yourself sick after a meal
• Using laxatives or steroids that haven’t been prescribed
• Only eating specific foods
• Obsessing over food or exercise, and how this might change your body

Top tips

• Mirror, mirror… Love and accept your body. Look in the mirror, what are the three things you like? 
• Listen to your body… Your body wants to be exercised and nourished. Exercise for fun, not beauty, and aim for three main meals a day and three nutritious snacks.
• The right role models… Try not to be influenced by other people skipping meals or commenting on weight. Be careful about the websites you visit and the people you follow.

You can find lots of information about eating disorders on our website and there’s also information on BEAT’s website.

You can learn about symptoms, different types of disordered eating and how diagnosis works.

When to get help

If you’re worried about your eating or exercise habits, or feel that you need to keep them secret, then it’s a good idea to talk to someone you trust.

If you’re struggling to cope and the things you’re trying yourself are not helping, there’s lots of options – including both online and in person support.

PositiveMinds and Kooth are good options for support, but any service will welcome and support you to get the right help you need.

If you’re aged 16+ and not sure where to get support, contact the Portsmouth Mental Health Hub on 0300 123 6621 (Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm) to talk to the team, or chat online.